Israel Must Not Provoke the Islamic World; A Call for Restraint and Respect for International Law.

Israel Must Not Provoke the Islamic World; A Call for Restraint and Respect for International Law

The recent Israeli airstrike on Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar, has sent shockwaves across the Middle East and beyond. For the first time, Israel struck inside a sovereign Gulf state—one that has served as a key mediator in ceasefire talks. This action not only jeopardizes ongoing negotiations but also raises grave questions about Israel’s respect for international law and regional stability.

Under the United Nations Charter, no state may use force within another sovereign country without its consent, except in clear self-defense or with explicit Security Council authorization. Qatar did not authorize this strike. Nor was there any imminent attack emanating from its territory. By acting unilaterally, Israel has violated one of the core principles of the post-World War II international order: the territorial integrity and political independence of states.

Beyond legality, the strategic consequences of such an attack are deeply troubling. By striking Qatar—one of the few actors still mediating between Israel and Hamas—Israel risks inflaming public opinion across the Islamic world. The perception that it is deliberately sabotaging ceasefire efforts may push Hamas to retaliate more aggressively, thereby providing Israel with a pretext to intensify its operations in Gaza. This cycle of provocation and retaliation is not only morally questionable but also strategically self-defeating.

History offers countless examples of great powers digging political “wells” only to fall into them themselves. In undermining Qatar’s mediation, Israel may be isolating itself diplomatically at a time when it needs international partners to achieve sustainable security. Even allies such as the United States and European states have expressed concern. Russia has called the strike a “gross violation” of the UN Charter. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt—all countries with whom Israel has sought closer ties—have condemned the attack. If Israel continues down this path, it risks turning a fragile détente with parts of the Arab and Islamic world into a new wave of hostility.

Israel’s long-term security cannot be built on disregard for international law or contempt for Muslim public opinion. True security will only come from addressing the root causes of conflict, respecting the sovereignty of neighboring states, and genuinely engaging in a just political settlement with the Palestinians. Provoking the Islamic world is a dangerous gamble that could undo years of diplomatic progress.

This is a pivotal moment. Israel can either reaffirm its commitment to international norms and work with mediators like Qatar to achieve a lasting ceasefire, or it can continue down a path of escalation that may ultimately engulf it in the very instability it seeks to avoid. The choice will shape not only Israel’s future but also the future of the entire region.

Syed Ali Raza Naqvi Bukhari

Unity of Peace, Economic Reform, and Global Unity

Founder & Chairman of Tehreek Istehkam Pakistan, and the author of “Law of God” and “Social Democratic System.” Advocates for truth, social justice, and reform in all sectors of society.