Doha: Al-Sharq newspaper affirmed that the State of Qatar continues its active role in supporting efforts to de-escalate tensions between the United States and Iran, and in following up on talks between the Sultanate of Oman and Iran. The newspaper noted that this role was underscored during the summit that brought together HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and his brother HM Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of the Sultanate of Oman, in addition to Qatar's support for Omani efforts to reduce tensions. It added that negotiations between Washington and Tehran have entered a crucial stage, while the Strait of Hormuz remains at the forefront of political and security considerations due to its importance to global energy and trade. Al-Sharq concluded by emphasizing that Qatar seeks to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, reduce tensions, and protect maritime and energy security, stressing that dialogue and diplomacy are the most realistic options for achieving security, stability, and peace.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al-Watan newspaper highlighted the continued Israeli violations against the Palestinian people, citing reports by UN rapporteurs regarding the ongoing genocide in the Gaza Strip and the escalation of attacks on civilians despite the ceasefire. The newspaper explained that approximately 160 Palestinians were killed during July, while the death toll since the ceasefire was declared in October 2015 has exceeded 1,200, including women, children, and the elderly. Hospitals, shelters for displaced persons, and humanitarian workers continue to be targeted. The newspaper noted that the UN report concluded that genocide is ongoing without interruption, questioning the international community's stance on these crimes. Al-Watan concluded its editorial by demanding that the international community take action and call the Israeli violations by their true name, considering them crimes that cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.
In turn, English-language newspaper The Peninsula condemned the Colombian government's decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Syrian Golan Heights and considered it a deeply troubling development that goes beyond the position of one government. It represents a direct challenge to principles of international law and the international consensus that has consistently rejected the acquisition of territory by force. The newspaper stated Qatar's firm condemnation of the decision reflects a longstanding and principled position: the Golan Heights remains occupied Arab territory, and no unilateral declaration can change its legal status. The Peninsula pointed out that UN Security Council Resolution 497 of 1981 is unequivocal in declaring Israel's imposition of its laws, jurisdiction, and administration on the Golan null and void and without international legal effect. Political recognition by another state cannot override a binding international framework. The newspaper added that this issue is al so inseparable from the wider pursuit of peace and stability in the Middle East. Attempts to legitimize occupation risk weakening the very foundations on which a sustainable regional peace must be built. The Peninsula concluded its editorial by warning that, rather than contributing to regional stability, recognition of the occupation risks deepening tensions and creating further obstacles to diplomatic efforts, emphasizing the need to respect for the UN Charter, international law, and Security Council resolutions must remain the basis for addressing disputes.