DOHA – Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, on Tuesday accused Israel of deliberately expanding its “aggression” to implement pre-planned schemes in the West Bank and Lebanon. In his annual speech at the opening of the Shura Council, Sheikh Tamim condemned Israel’s actions, asserting that they were part of a broader strategy.
Israel has expanded its military activities, he claimed, “because it sees that the scope for that is available.” His remarks come amid escalating tensions in the region, with increasing violence and confrontations involving Israeli forces in both the West Bank and Lebanon.
The Shura Council, which has legislative authority and approves the country’s general policies and budget, does not have jurisdiction over critical areas such as defence, security, economic, or investment policies in Qatar. Political parties are also banned in the wealthy gas-producing nation.
The Emir also mentioned that amendments to Qatar’s constitution would be proposed by the Shura Council and put to a popular referendum for approval.