Recent reports indicate that Qatar has signed massive military deals with major Israeli defense companies during the Gaza war, with values exceeding hundreds of millions of dollars. These deals, involving companies such as Elbit Systems, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), were officially approved by the Israeli government before October 7, 2023, according to reliable Israeli sources.
Details of the Deals and Israeli Government Approval
According to the reports, the contracts signed by Elbit Systems with Qatar exceeded $100 million, while Rafael signed contracts worth tens of millions. Israel Aerospace Industries conducted more than 20 official visits to Doha and concluded these meetings with an extended session with a high-level Qatari delegation at the company’s headquarters in Israel.
Sources confirmed that these deals were approved by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defense, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who signed the necessary export licenses.
Official Denial and Complexities in Details
However, the office of Prime Minister Netanyahu categorically denied directly signing export licenses to Qatar, stating that licenses are granted through the Ministry of Defense and the Defense Export and Cooperation Administration (DECA). This highlights complexities in the approval and licensing process between contract signing and official authorization.
Political Context and Raised Controversy
These deals come amid Qatar’s role as a mediator in ceasefire talks and its support for the Palestinian cause, sparking widespread controversy over the contradiction between its military trade relations with Israel and its political stance. Qatar is a key player in a regional axis opposed to Israel, including Iran, Turkey, and Hamas in Gaza.
Reports also indicate that the October 7, 2023 attack disrupted most negotiations and led to the cancellation of some previously signed contracts.
Impact of the Deals on the Regional Scene
These deals raise questions about political and ethical positions, especially as Qatar continues to support Hamas and hosts its members in military bases. Some observers view these deals as a sign of building trust between the two parties, while others see them as a clear contradiction to Qatar’s role as a mediator supporting Palestinians.
Summary:
Evidence suggests that Qatar signed arms deals with Israel worth millions during the Gaza war, with official approval from the Israeli government despite official denials and licensing complexities. This issue remains under close scrutiny amid ongoing political and security developments in the region.