British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has condemned the recent Israeli airstrike on Hamas leadership in Doha, Qatar, describing the attack as a “flagrant violation” of Qatar’s sovereignty that risks exacerbating regional tensions.
In a phone call with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani on Tuesday, Starmer reiterated his condemnation of the strike and conveyed his condolences over the death of a Qatari security officer killed in the attack, according to an official statement from the Prime Minister’s Office. He emphasized that Israel’s actions
“represent a flagrant violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and risk fuelling further escalation when the focus should be ending the devastating cycle of violence in the region.”
Starmer praised Qatar’s vital role in mediating ceasefire efforts between Israel and Hamas, highlighting the Emir’s determination to continue peace talks. He affirmed the UK’s readiness to support Qatar’s efforts aimed at bringing about a ceasefire and ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The Israeli airstrike, which took place on September 9 in Doha’s West Bay Lagoon district, targeted senior Hamas political leaders reportedly discussing a U.S.-proposed ceasefire. While several lower-ranking Hamas members and a Qatari security official were killed, senior Hamas negotiators survived the attack. The strike marked the first time Israel had conducted a military operation on Qatari soil, drawing sharp international condemnation.
The UK’s response aligns with that of many nations and international bodies, including the United Nations, which called the strike a “flagrant violation” of Qatar’s sovereignty and urged all parties to pursue lasting peace.
Starmer’s office confirmed that he plans to raise the Israeli airstrike on Qatar, along with the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza, during talks with Israeli President Isaac Herzog this week in London. The meeting is expected to be tense as it follows increased international criticism of Israel’s military actions in recent days.
Domestically, Starmer faces growing calls from members of his Labour Party for a tougher stance on Israel, yet he has emphasized the importance of diplomacy to achieve a ceasefire and secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
Qatar, along with the United States and Egypt, has been an instrumental mediator in seeking a truce in the Gaza conflict, making the airstrike an unprecedented challenge to ongoing peace efforts. The attack is viewed by many observers as a dangerous escalation that could further destabilize the region.
Qatar and United Kingdom Relations
The diplomatic relations between Qatar and the United Kingdom are historically deep-rooted and have grown significantly in recent years, based on cooperation in political, economic, security, and development sectors.
In April 2025, the two countries held their second annual Qatar-UK Strategic Dialogue in Doha under the theme “Partners for the Future.” This meeting reaffirmed their shared ambition to deepen cooperation across trade, investment, defence, security, counterterrorism, global leadership, and people-to-people connections. During this dialogue, both nations reviewed progress since the inaugural 2023 Strategic Dialogue and announced new initiatives to enhance collaboration.
Qatar has been a significant investor in the UK economy, with investments worth over £40 billion and bilateral trade volumes exceeding £5.6 billion in 2024, contributing to economic growth and job creation in both countries. The partnership also extends to joint efforts in peace, reconciliation, and conflict resolution, including joint humanitarian programs in priority regions like the Gaza Strip, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen.
The UK remains a key partner for Qatar, providing diplomatic support and engaging in joint security and economic initiatives aligned with Qatar’s National Vision 2030 and the UK’s Plan for Change. The relationship is characterized by high-level visits, including Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani’s state visit to London in December 2024, and regular ministerial exchanges.
