Does the Doha Summit Open the Doors to Confrontation? Qatar in the Crosshairs of Israel and Arabs Threaten to Respond

In an unprecedented political scene, Arab and Islamic countries gathered in the Qatari capital, Doha, for an emergency summit that carried a single title: responding to the Israeli aggression that targeted the mediator instead of the conflicting party.

The attack on Doha was not just a security breach, but a clear political message that Israel no longer recognizes any red lines, neither diplomatic nor sovereign.

The summit, which came days after officials from Hamas were targeted within Qatari territory, turned into a regional platform to redefine Qatar's position in the conflict equation.

Doha is no longer just a mediator; it has become a key party in the confrontation, raising a fundamental question: Are we witnessing the beginning of a direct confrontation between Israel and an Arab state?

The final statement of the summit carried an unprecedented tone in its clarity and severity. A comprehensive condemnation of the aggression, absolute support for Qatar's sovereignty, and a firm rejection of attempts to displace Palestinians or impose a new reality in Gaza.

However, these positions, despite their symbolic importance, remain within the framework of political response unless translated into practical steps, whether through activating joint defense mechanisms or pressing diplomatic moves in international forums.

At the same time as the summit convened, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made provocative statements, accusing Qatar of leading international efforts to impose a blockade on Israel, referring to what he described as an "media blockade funded by Qatar and China."

These statements, which came through the "Jerusalem Post," reveal a state of escalating tension, and perhaps a desire to escalate the confrontation.

The Qatari response was swift and decisive, as the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, described the Israeli attack as "blatant and cowardly," affirming that Israel "assassinates the negotiating party and attacks the mediating country," referring to the targeting of Hamas leaders while considering a U.S. proposal for a ceasefire.

Although the likelihood of a direct war between Israel and Qatar remains low, due to factors related to power balances and U.S. presence in the Gulf, the continued Israeli targeting of mediators and its disregard for international law may prompt some countries to reconsider their response strategies, especially if attacks are repeated or expanded to include other countries.

What distinguishes the Doha Summit is that it was not just an emergency meeting, but a clear declaration that the time for silence has ended, and that targeting any Arab or Islamic country will not go unanswered.

It is a pivotal moment that could redraw the map of regional alliances and present Israel with new challenges that it had not anticipated.