In a major intelligence leak, Israel’s spy agency Mossad has reportedly uncovered that Qatar provided $11 million (approx. ₹94 crore) to Hamas—money that was allegedly used to execute the deadly October 2023 attacks on Israel. This shocking revelation, made public by Israeli media outlet Channel 12, could radically shift regional diplomatic dynamics and expose Qatar’s covert ties to terror operations.

Key Highlights from the Report

• Meeting with Qatari ministers: Top Hamas leaders Ismail Haniyeh and Yahya Sinwar allegedly met with Qatari officials to secure funding.

• Money trail: The funds were used for weapons purchases and to carry out terrorist attacks, including the coordinated assault that killed 1,200 Israelis in October 2023.

• Document source: The information is said to come from Mossad intelligence documents reviewed by Channel 12.

Why This Revelation Is Explosive

1. Qatar's image as a 'neutral player' is shattered
   Qatar has often positioned itself as a mediator in Middle East conflicts, hosting multiple negotiation rounds between Hamas and Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has maintained diplomatic and business ties with Qatar. This report raises serious questions about that relationship and whether Netanyahu’s administration ignored or underestimated Qatar’s backdoor dealings.

2. Iran no longer the only suspect
   Until now, Iran was the main country accused of financing Hamas. But this revelation puts Qatar in the spotlight, revealing it may be playing a double game—offering humanitarian aid publicly while secretly backing violent extremism.

3. Peace deal in jeopardy
   Qatar was co-leading efforts with the United States to draft a peace deal between Israel and Hamas. With this funding link now public, the entire peace negotiation process may be shelved or redirected. Israel has already expressed skepticism about Qatar’s role, and this leak validates their concerns.

What Does This Mean for Regional Diplomacy?

• Israel may cut diplomatic ties with Qatar or demand public accountability.

• Egypt—which had taken a backseat in peace mediation—may now regain prominence as a more trustworthy broker.

• The US, which often uses Qatar as a strategic ally in the Gulf, may come under pressure to reassess its stance.

• Netanyahu’s internal critics may use this revelation to question his judgment in maintaining Qatar ties.

Qatar’s Silence Raises Eyebrows

So far, Qatar has not issued a statement refuting or confirming the allegations. Given its longstanding ties to Hamas, silence may only fuel speculation and demand a formal international investigation.

What Comes Next?

• Israel could impose sanctions or retaliate diplomatically.

• International attention may turn toward Qatar’s other foreign funding activities.

• Netanyahu's credibility might take a hit both domestically and internationally.

• Talks of a ceasefire deal may collapse, escalating tensions in Gaza and across the region.