September 11, (THEWILL) — African countries, including Nigeria and South Africa, on Wednesday, condemned an Israeli strike on Qatar’s capital, Doha, on Tuesday.
THEWILL had reported an Israeli military airstrike targeting senior leaders of Hamas in Doha.
While Qatar condemned the “cowardly” attack, it said the strike targeted residential buildings that housed members of Hamas’ political bureau.
Expressing “deep concern” over the airstrike in Doha, the Federal Government of Nigeria, in a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, emphasised the need to respect sovereignty of nations and adherence to international law, warning that the attack could further destabilise the Middle East
”The Federal Government of Nigeria expresses deep concern over reports of an Israeli airstrike on September 9, 2025, in Doha, Qatar, reportedly targeting senior members of the Hamas leadership.
“Nigeria underscores the primacy of respecting the sovereignty of all nations and adhering to international law, particularly in matters involving the use of force across borders.
“This development raises serious questions about regional stability and the prospects for ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict”, Nigeria said.
It further acknowledged Qatar’s longstanding role in fostering dialogue and mediation in the region, urging all parties to exercise restraint.
“Nigeria urges all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid escalation and recommit to peaceful engagement.”
Nigeria extended sympathies to victims of the attack and reiterated support for initiatives promoting dialogue and de-escalation. It also reaffirmed its commitment to working with the United Nations (UN) and other international organisations to advance peace and security in the Middle East.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to all those affected by the incident and reiterate our unwavering support for initiatives that promote de-escalation, dialogue, and durable peace.
“The Federal Government remains steadfast in its commitment to working alongside members of the international community… to advance peace, security, and the rule of law in the Middle East and beyond”, the statement added.
On its part, South Africa described the attack as “flagrant violation” of Qatar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
A statement from the South African Foreign Ministry, noted Wednesday that the attack came at a time the Qatari government is playing a “prominent role” in mediating a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages held by Hamas,
“The airstrike targeting Hamas’ leaders represents “a blatant violation of international law, breaching the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also compromising the safeguarding of civilians”, it said.
Expressing solidarity with Qatari Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the Gulf state’s government, Pretoria demanded an immediate ceasefire and an end to military actions in “Israel’s genocidal war” against Palestinians, “so that negotiations to a just peace can commence.”
Also, Gambia “strongly” condemned the airstrikes as a violation of international law and Qatari sovereignty. It urged the UN Security Council, the international community and regional bodies to act swiftly to prevent an escalation, ensure accountability, protect civilians and help restore peace.
Similarly, Ghana, voiced “deep concern” about the attack and expressed support to Qatar.
Praising Qatar’s “tireless and impressive commitment” toward peace, it said the Israeli strike “undermines the ongoing pursuit of peace between the States of Palestine and Israel.”
Expressing “deep concern” about the strike in a Communication Ministry statement, the Democratic Republic of Congo underlined the need to prioritise de-escalation, uphold international law and protect civilians.
On it’s part, Somalia described the airstrike condemned as terrorism. It said Israel’s strikes represented a “grave violation of international law” and a threat to regional and international peace and security.“
The East African country demanded that the UN Security Council assume its responsibilities and take immediate measures to stop the repeated hostile acts by Israel and ensure the protection of civilians.
“Somalia strongly condemns the terrorist military actions carried out by the Israeli occupation authorities against residential compounds in Doha, which violate the national sovereignty of the sisterly State of Qatar and deliberately target innocent civilians in contravention of all international conventions”, a Foreign Ministry’s statement read.
Egypt’s Foreign Ministry also called the Israeli strike “a blatant violation of international law and state sovereignty.”
Cairo said the attack represents “a dangerous precedent and an unacceptable escalation.” It expressed full solidarity with Qatar and demanded that the international community acts immediately to stop the Israeli assaults and hold Israel accountable.
Morocco’s foreign ministry also condemned “Israel’s aggression and denounced the violation of the sovereignty of the brotherly state of Qatar”.
“The Kingdom of Morocco reiterates its full solidarity with the State of Qatar against anything liable to jeopardise its security, its territorial integrity and the peace of its citizens and residents,” it said in a statement.
Algeria said it strongly condemns and denounces the brutal Israeli aggression, according to a statement from its foreign ministry
The North African country expressed its “full and absolute solidarity with the sisterly state of Qatar in the face of these exceptional circumstances it is going through.”
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the African Union (AU) Commission chairperson, warned that the attack threatens to worsen the “already fragile situation” in the Middle East. He reiterated the AU’s appeal for restraint, respect for sovereignty and protection of civilians.
Qatar along with the United States and Egypt, has been playing a central role in efforts to mediate an end to Israel’s war on Gaza, which has killed more than 64,600 Palestinians since October 2023.
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