Qatar disputes ‘organised smear campaign’ about terrorism support

Qatar disputes ‘organised smear campaign’ about terrorism support

QLNews
By QLNews

Qatar has denounced allegations in certain sections of the media that it was a supporter of terrorism and said it is the victim of an ‘organised smear campaign.’

In a strongly-worded statement issued by Government Communications Office Director Sheikh Saif Al Thani, Qatar said it had been deliberately targeted ahead of US President Donald Trump’s visit to the region, which began yesterday.

“In the run-up to Donald Trump’s trip to the Middle East, an orchestrated barrage of opinion pieces by anti-Qatar organisations in a variety of mainstream and online publications has alleged that Qatar is sympathetic to, or turns a blind eye toward the actions of terrorist groups in the Middle East. This is absolutely and unequivocally false,” Gulf Times reported, quoting from the statement.

“In fact, as the authors of these articles must know, the government of the State of Qatar — like all of its neighbors in the Middle East — is a target for these terrorist groups.

They threaten the peace and stability of our region and they put our national sovereignty at risk. Which is why it is absurd to suggest that Qatar would either aid and abet those seeking to finance these extremist groups or harbor an Al Qaeda mastermind, as the anti-Qatar campaigners have recently alleged,” continued the statement.

Qatar said that its efforts to defeat terrorism have been acknowledged and appreciated by security and intelligence services of the US and its allies.

“These efforts are long-standing and on going, and will continue until the scourge of terrorism is eliminated in the Middle East and around the world. Our approach to countering the terrorist threat is both tactical and strategic. On the tactical level, Qatar is an active member of the US-led coalition to defeat ISIS and proudly hosts America's Combined Air and Operations Center at Al Udeid air base,” reported The Peninsula.

“Qatar is also battling terrorism at the strategic level through our support for education, reconstruction and economic development programmes throughout the Middle East. We have provided educational opportunities for more than seven million children and created over 300,000 jobs, offering hope for a better future to those most at risk of terrorist recruitment.

“To cite a relevant example, Qatar was instrumental in securing the passage of the so-called Doha Declaration at the 13th UN Crime Congress in 2015, which authorised the creation of a comprehensive programme to counter violent extremism through prisoner rehabilitation, social integration and youth education initiatives. Our $49m contribution will help ensure that the UN's good intentions are followed by concrete actions to address the terrorist threat,” the statement said.

“None of this is to suggest that Qatar has a magical solution to the problem of radical extremism and global terrorism. We do not. But we are absolutely sincere in our commitment to battling and defeating this scourge, and to suggest otherwise is deceitful and disingenuous,” Qatar Tribune wrote, quoting the statement.

“We can assume that at some point in the future the identities of the sponsors of the anti-Qatar campaign will be revealed. When that happens we will, perhaps, learn the true motive behind their efforts to damage Qatar's good name. Until then, there is one thing we know for certain. Their allegation that Qatar supports terrorism is a lie,” it concluded. 

By Molten Metal• 21 May 2017 10:13
Molten Metal

Media needs to be fair in serious issues ..............

Log in or register to post comments

More from Qatar Living

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Let's dive into the best beaches in Qatar, where you can have a blast with water activities, sports and all around fun times.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

This guide brings you the top apps that will simplify the use of government services in Qatar.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

this guide presents the top must-have Qatar-based apps to help you navigate, dine, explore, access government services, and more in the country.
Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Qatar's winter months are brimming with unmissable experiences, from the AFC Asian Cup 2023 to the World Aquatics Championships Doha 2024 and a variety of outdoor adventures and cultural delights.
7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

Stuck with a week-long holiday and bored kids? We've got a one week activity plan for fun, learning, and lasting memories.
Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a sweet escape into the world of budget-friendly Mango Sticky Rice that's sure to satisfy both your cravings and your budget!
Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in  high-end elegance

Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in high-end elegance

Delve into a world of culinary luxury as we explore the upmarket hotels and fine dining restaurants serving exquisite Mango Sticky Rice.
Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Celebrate World Vegan Day with our list of vegan food outlets offering an array of delectable options, spanning from colorful salads to savory shawarma and indulgent desserts.