Qatar denies funding Israel Arab parties as election results tighten
Doha rejects claims of financial interference in Tuesday’s parliamentary vote, which saw historic gains for Arab lists despite Netanyahu’s bloc falling short of a majority.
By Kofi Costa ·
Qatar’s foreign ministry rejected accusations that Doha funded get-out-the-vote drives for Arab parties in Israel’s parliamentary elections. The denial came on Thursday, days after partial results showed the two Arab lists securing a record number of seats in the new Knesset. The timing of the accusations coincided with reports that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party would not secure a majority in Tuesday’s vote.
Majed al-Ansari, the ministry spokesman, described the claims as a disinformation campaign designed to entangle Qatar in Israeli domestic disputes. He stated that the allegations were ridiculous and dangerous. Al-Ansari noted that if the accusations were true, Qatar would effectively own all of Israel. He added that Doha has no involvement in the country’s political or electoral competition and should not be used as a scapegoat for local political failures.
The dispute centers on unsubstantiated claims by Likud officials and associated media outlets. They alleged that Qatar sent money to Arab parties to influence voter turnout. The accusations lack evidence but represent the latest phase in a long-running campaign against Doha. Netanyahu previously attacked Qatar in September 2025 during the war in Gaza. Israeli advisers also ran a secret targeting campaign in the weeks following the October 7, 2023, attacks.
Despite the political noise, official election authorities maintain the process was sound. Dean Livine, acting director of Israel’s Central Elections Committee, wrote to a member of the Knesset to refute foreign interference theories. He stated that the elections were conducted lawfully and that the integrity of polling stations was rigorously safeguarded. This official stance contrasts with the rhetoric coming from Netanyahu’s allies.
The partial results show a shift in the parliamentary landscape. While Netanyahu’s bloc failed to reach the majority needed to govern alone, the Arab lists achieved their highest seat count in history. Mainstream parties have so far rejected the idea of forming a coalition that includes these Arab parties. This gridlock has intensified the pressure on opposition figures to explain the election outcome.
Qatar continues to play a central role in regional diplomacy. Doha mediates between Israel and the Palestinians and is currently leading efforts to end the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Al-Ansari said the recent accusations would not distract from these diplomatic and humanitarian efforts. He reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to a just peace and regional stability despite the political friction.
The foreign ministry spokesman advised Israeli politicians to focus on their own voters and daily life improvements. He suggested they undo the damage they have created in the region rather than blaming external actors. Qatar stands by its position that these are internal Israeli matters in which it does not interfere.
