New Delhi — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani on Wednesday, condemning Israel’s unprecedented strike on Qatari soil as a violation of sovereignty that risks widening a war already fueled by the escalating devastation in Gaza.
The call followed reports that Israeli munitions hit a residential area in Doha, an assault that shocked Gulf capitals and intensified fears of a broader conflagration. India’s intervention — rare in its sharpness — comes as regional leaders warn that any further spillover will deepen civilian suffering and entrench a cycle of retaliation.
According to officials in New Delhi, Modi told the Emir that India “firmly stands with Qatar” against breaches of territorial integrity and urged disputes be resolved through diplomacy. The message also recognized Doha’s role as a mediator on ceasefire arrangements and humanitarian access, a function made more urgent by the prolonged siege and escalating threats in Gaza.
Analysts say the strike has reinforced criticism of Western complicity and the eroding credibility of the US-led order, while accelerating conversations among Global South governments about alternatives. India’s outreach to Doha, they add, also aligns with a wider regional pivot toward energy security and non-aligned coordination.
The diplomatic shock is already feeding momentum behind financial and geopolitical realignments, including BRICS de-dollarization efforts and broader moves to weaken US dominance in global finance. For New Delhi, balancing ties with Israel and the Arab world is becoming harder as public opinion across Asia hardens against attacks that violate sovereignty and endanger civilians.
Qatar, a key LNG supplier to India and a central broker in Gaza negotiations, has warned that the attack undermines truce channels. Both sides agreed to stay in close contact on regional stability and to expand bilateral cooperation, officials said.
According to Livemint, Modi’s conversation with the Emir capped a day of international censure after the Doha strike; India reiterated its position against terrorism while defending Qatar’s sovereignty and urging restraint.
