Jakarta, ThedailyID — Qatar Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani has called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a “war criminal” over Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Al Thani made the statement during an interview with British broadcaster Piers Morgan on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. Morgan asked him directly whether he considered Netanyahu a war criminal.
“Of course. What has been committed in Gaza is war crimes, and whoever is responsible for this is a war criminal,” Al Thani said, as reported on Thursday, October 1.
Al Thani also addressed the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel. He described it as a “massacre” and said those responsible should be held accountable.
However, he argued that the attack did not justify Israel’s subsequent military actions in Gaza. He also said attacks on hospitals and schools could not be justified by any argument.
The remarks come amid continued tensions between Qatar and Israel. Doha has played a mediation role between Israel and Hamas in efforts to reach ceasefire agreements.
Al Thani has previously accused Israel of obstructing efforts to implement ceasefire arrangements in Gaza. Qatar has also rejected Israeli allegations that it supports Hamas’ military wing.
During the interview, Al Thani said Qatar would continue pursuing diplomacy despite the wider regional tensions. He described mediation as difficult but said Doha would continue working toward peaceful solutions.
The comments also came shortly after Netanyahu addressed the United Nations General Assembly. Netanyahu has publicly criticized Qatar and its role in the region, while Doha has rejected his allegations.
Separately, Netanyahu is currently subject to an International Criminal Court arrest warrant over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. Israel rejects the ICC’s jurisdiction and disputes the allegations.
