Africa condemns Israeli strike on Qatari capital

ISTANBUL

African countries on Wednesday are condemning an Israeli strike on Qatar’s capital.

The airstrike targeting Hamas’ leaders represents “a blatant violation of international law, breaching the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also compromising the safeguarding of civilians,” a statement from the South African Foreign Ministry said Wednesday.

It said the attack was a “flagrant violation” of Qatar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, coming as the Qatari government plays a “prominent role” in mediating a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Expressing solidarity with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the Gulf state’s government, Pretoria demanded an immediate ceasefire and an end to military actions in “Israel’s genocidal war” against Palestinians, “so that negotiations to a just peace can commence.”

Gambia “strongly” condemned the airstrikes as a violation of international law and Qatari sovereignty.

The West African country urged the UN Security Council, the international community and regional bodies to act swiftly to prevent an escalation, ensure accountability, protect civilians and help restore peace.

Ghana, also a West African nation, voiced “deep concern” about the attack and expressed support to Qatar.

Praising Qatar’s “tireless and impressive commitment” toward peace, it said the Israeli strike “undermines the ongoing pursuit of peace between the States of Palestine and Israel.”

Expressing “deep concern” about the strike in a Communication Ministry statement Tuesday, the Democratic Republic of Congo underlined the need to prioritize de-escalation, uphold international law and protect civilians.

Somalia condemned on Tuesday the “terrorist military actions carried out by the Israeli occupation authorities against residential compounds in Doha.”

The East African country demanded that the UN Security Council assume its responsibilities and take immediate measures to stop the repeated hostile acts by Israel and ensure the protection of civilians.

Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the African Union (AU) Commission chairperson, warned on Tuesday that the attack threatens to worsen the “already fragile situation” in the Middle East.

He reiterated the AU’s appeal for restraint, respect for sovereignty and protection of civilians.

Israel said Tuesday that it conducted a "precise strike targeting the senior leadership" of the Palestinian group.

Qatar condemned the "cowardly" attack, saying the strike targeted residential buildings that housed members of Hamas's political bureau.

The Gulf state, along with the US and Egypt, has been playing a central role in efforts to mediate an end to Israel’s war on Gaza, which has killed more than 64,600 Palestinians since October 2023.