Qatar's Prime Minister Attacks: "Qatargate – Political Media Propaganda"

Qatar's Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, responded today (Sunday) for the first time in detail to the publications surrounding what is called "Qatargate," describing them as "baseless media propaganda designed to serve political goals." At a joint press conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Al-Thani firmly rejected accusations against his country and made it clear that Qatar will not be deterred from continuing its activities in the diplomatic arena.

"I don't know what Qatargate is," said Al-Thani when asked about the affair. "There is no truth to it. This is a deliberate campaign by marginal elements in Israel trying to divert discussion from the truly important issues – like bringing peace to the region."

Nevertheless, the Qatari Prime Minister admitted that his country did engage with an American communications company, but claimed it was a transparent and legitimate move: "We had contracts with an American company to deal with a public relations campaign designed to harm Qatar in Israel. There is nothing unusual or hidden about this."

During the press conference, Al-Thani also addressed the sensitive situation in the Gaza Strip and expressed concern about delays in implementing the ceasefire agreement. "We are worried about the collapse of the ceasefire," he said. "We emphasized the need to mobilize international effort to ensure a return to implementing the agreement, step by step. Bullying and attacks against Qatar will not deter us from continuing to work for security and peace."

His comments come against the backdrop of reports in Israeli and international media claiming that Qatar invested money in efforts to change Israeli public opinion regarding its policies, and even activated elements in the Prime Minister's circle. Al-Thani not only rejects the accusations but also claims that this is a distraction from Qatar's role in mediating between Hamas and Israel and in efforts to return the hostages.