UN Human Rights Council Announces Urgent Debate on Israel’s Airstrike Targeting Hamas Leaders in Qatar

The United Nations Human Rights Council will convene an urgent debate on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, in Geneva to address Israel’s recent airstrike targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar. This marks the Council’s 10th emergency session since its inception in 2006. The debate was called after official requests from Pakistan, representing the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and Kuwait, on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Israel’s September 9 air raid killed five Hamas members and a Qatari security officer in Doha, provoking widespread international condemnation, particularly among Gulf monarchies traditionally allied with the United States. Arab and Islamic leaders have warned that such attacks threaten regional coexistence and the efforts to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel. The draft resolution prepared by these states cites Israel’s attack as undermining peace and jeopardizing agreements already achieved in the region.

The Israeli delegation called the urgent debate “absurd,” arguing it would stain global human rights mechanisms. Israel has also faced escalating allegations of genocide in Gaza, accusations it denies, emphasizing its right to self-defense after the deadly October 2023 Hamas attacks. Qatar, which has played a key mediation role, criticized Israel for sabotaging peace negotiations but vowed to continue diplomatic efforts.

The debate is expected to draw sharp divisions among member states, with many Arab and Islamic nations pushing for strong condemnation, while Israel’s allies urge restraint and focus on hostage recovery. The outcome may have significant diplomatic repercussions for regional peace and mediation efforts.