Doha: In a series of editorials on Tuesday, Qatari newspapers focused on the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, a situation exacerbated by ongoing Israeli actions, including a blockade and reported starvation tactics. They specifically highlighted the recent incident involving the humanitarian aid vessel Madleen, which was intercepted by Israeli naval forces in international waters.
According to Qatar News Agency, the editorial in Al-Sharq emphasized the storming of the Madleen by Israeli forces as it attempted to deliver supplies to Gaza. The vessel, part of a humanitarian mission, carried international activists and volunteers aiming to support the people of Gaza. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition reported that the ship was boarded in international waters, an act described as a violation of international law. Al-Sharq criticized the Israeli authorities for treating humanitarian initiatives as military threats and for disregarding international conventions.
The newspaper further commented on the broader implications of the incident, linking it to the ongoing struggles faced by Palestinians in Gaza. It argued that the attack on the Madleen is part of a pattern of daily violations occurring under international silence, and called for global action to address what it described as a disregard for humanitarian solidarity and international law.
In a related editorial, Al-Raya newspaper discussed the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where people face a choice between starvation and violence. The newspaper accused Israel of committing atrocities against civilians under the guise of security operations. It claimed that Israel’s actions are aimed not at rescuing hostages but at systematically punishing Palestinians through starvation and infrastructure destruction.
Al-Raya highlighted data from the Government Media Office in Gaza, reporting that Israeli operations have targeted numerous charitable food kitchens and aid centers since the conflict began. These actions, according to the newspaper, are part of a concerted effort to starve over 2.4 million Palestinians in Gaza, while the international community remains largely silent.
In contrast to the grim situation in Gaza, the newspapers also praised the successful organization of this year’s Hajj season. They commended Saudi Arabia for its efforts in facilitating the pilgrimage, noting the well-organized arrangements and comprehensive services that contributed to a smooth and successful event.