The United Arab Emirates summoned the Israeli ambassador on Friday after Israel attacked Hamas leaders in Qatar’s capital, Doha. This diplomatic move marks growing tensions between the two countries, which previously shared close economic and security ties.
Israeli broadcaster reported that the UAE summoned the envoy in protest. The incident signals a strain in relations that were already tense over Israel’s right-wing government and its past annexation plans in the West Bank, which Abu Dhabi had called a “red line.”
Global condemnation followed the Israeli strike, which targeted Hamas political leaders. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later warned Qatar to expel Hamas officials or face consequences. The UAE strongly rejected Netanyahu’s remarks, calling them “aggressive” and inappropriate.
UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed is currently touring Gulf countries to align positions ahead of an emergency Arab-Islamic summit in Qatar. The summit, scheduled for Sunday and Monday, will focus on Israel’s recent actions and the escalating crisis in Gaza.
So far, neither Israel nor the UAE’s foreign ministries have commented on the report. However, tensions continue to rise. The attack on Doha is especially sensitive, as Qatar plays a key role in ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas.