Gaza Herald— Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani declared that Israel’s war on Gaza constitutes “unquestionably genocide” and called for those responsible to face criminal accountability, as Palestinians continue to suffer from Israeli attacks and restrictions on essential supplies despite the October 2025 ceasefire.
Addressing the opening of the Shura Council’s 55th annual session in Doha on Tuesday, Sheikh Tamim condemned the devastation inflicted on Gaza over the past three years and stressed that those responsible must not escape justice.
“What happened in the Gaza Strip is unquestionably genocide, and its perpetrators must not be allowed to escape accountability,” the emir said.
His remarks came a year after the ceasefire agreement took effect, with continued Israeli attacks and restrictions on humanitarian assistance leaving Palestinians facing death, displacement, and severe shortages of basic necessities.
Israeli Attacks Continue Despite Gaza Ceasefire
Qatar played a central role in diplomatic efforts to secure the October 10, 2025, ceasefire, alongside other regional and international mediators.
However, Israeli attacks have continued across Gaza since the agreement took effect.
According to figures attributed to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, 1,493 Palestinians have been killed and another 5,299 injured in Israeli attacks during the year following the ceasefire.
Israeli restrictions on humanitarian aid have also limited the entry of food, medical supplies, shelter materials, and equipment needed to restore essential services.
The shortages have compounded the suffering of displaced Palestinian families, many of whom remain in overcrowded tents and temporary shelters after losing their homes during Israel’s genocidal campaign.
International Courts Examine Israeli Crimes in Gaza
The emir’s demand for accountability comes amid international legal proceedings concerning Israel’s conduct in Gaza.
In November 2024, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The court found reasonable grounds to believe the two men bore criminal responsibility for crimes including starvation as a method of warfare. The warrants do not constitute criminal convictions.
Separately, the International Court of Justice is considering South Africa’s case accusing Israel of violating the Genocide Convention in Gaza.
The proceedings concern allegations of genocide and Israel’s obligations under international law. The court has not issued a final judgment on whether genocide occurred.
Qatar Reaffirms Commitment to Palestinian Rights
Sheikh Tamim also reiterated Qatar’s commitment to regional stability and continued diplomatic engagement.
“We will continue working with our brothers and our international and regional partners to keep our region stable and secure,” he said.
Qatar has remained involved in efforts to maintain the Gaza ceasefire and advance negotiations concerning the Palestinian territory.
For Palestinians in Gaza, the emir’s call for accountability comes after three years of mass casualties, widespread destruction, and repeated displacement, with thousands of families still struggling to secure food, medical care, and safe shelter.
