The United States is now the largest exporter of liquefied natural gas. Record exports in December has helped the US. To overtake market leaders Qatar & Australia. A record 8.6 million metric tons of lng left US terminals in December.

Record exports in December help US overtake Qatar | World Business Watch

<p>The United States has reached a deal to extend its military presence at a base in Qatar for another 10 years, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday (Jan 2).</p>

<p>The base in question is the Al Udeid Air Base, which is located in the desert southwest of Doha and hosts the largest US military facility in the Middle East, the source said, asking to not be identified.</p>

<p>The development was reported first by CNN. The US Department of Defense did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The tiny Gulf state has played a key role in mediation talks with Hamas and Israeli officials in relation to the war in Gaza and the release of hostages captured by the Palestinian Islamist group in its October 7 cross-border attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people.</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden has regularly spoken with the emir of Qatar since October 7 on securing the release of hostages held by Hamas and on boosting aid to Gaza, where Israel's assault since the Hamas attack has killed over 22,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-qatar-asks-us-to-form-secret-cell-to-work-on-hostage-issue-661562"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Qatar asks US to form secret cell to work on hostage issue</strong></a></p>

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<p>There has also been criticism of Qatar by some in the US Congress over Hamas' presence in the country. A bipartisan group of 113 US lawmakers on October 16 sent a letter to Biden asking him to put pressure on countries that support Hamas, including Qatar.</p>

<p>Qatar is also a major non-NATO US ally, a designation granted by the United States to close, non-NATO allies that have strategic working relationships with the US military.</p>

<p>The Gulf state has also been a channel for US dialogue with the Taliban since the American pullout from Afghanistan in 2021. It played a role in mediating deals that in late 2023 led to some Americans being freed by Venezuela and Iran in prisoner swaps.</p>


The United States has reached a deal to extend its military presence at a base in Qatar for another 10 years, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday (Jan 2).

The United States has reached a deal to extend its military presence at a base in Qatar for another 10 years, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday (Jan 2). The base in question is the Al Udeid Air Base, which is located in the desert southwest of Doha and hosts the largest US military facility in the Middle East, the source said, asking to not be identified. The development was reported first by CNN. The US Department of Defense did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday. The tiny Gulf state has played a key role in mediation talks with Hamas and Israeli officials in relation to the war in Gaza and the release of hostages captured by the Palestinian Islamist group in its October 7 cross-border attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people. US President Joe Biden has regularly spoken with the emir of Qatar since October 7 on securing the release of hostages held by Hamas and on boosting aid to Gaza, where Israel's assault since the Hamas attack has killed over 22,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Qatar asks US to form secret cell to work on hostage issue × There has also been criticism of Qatar by some in the US Congress over Hamas' presence in the country. A bipartisan group of 113 US lawmakers on October 16 sent a letter to Biden asking him to put pressure on countries that support Hamas, including Qatar. Qatar is also a major non-NATO US ally, a designation granted by the United States to close, non-NATO allies that have strategic working relationships with the US military. The Gulf state has also been a channel for US dialogue with the Taliban since the American pullout from Afghanistan in 2021. It played a role in mediating deals that in late 2023 led to some Americans being freed by Venezuela and Iran in prisoner swaps.

US reaches deal with Qatar to extend presence at largest military base in Middle East

In an important development, the United States has agreed with Qatar to keep its large military base in operation in the Middle East. Quoting sources from the US Department of Defense Reports say that the 10-year extension concerns the Al Udeid Air Base in the desert Southwest of Doha is the biggest US military installation in East Asia.

US to keep operating Al Udeid air base in Qatar for 10 years

<p>The family members of Indian nationals, whose death sentences were commuted by a Qatar court of appeal on Thursday (Dec 28), reacted with caution over the verdict saying that the recent development in the case cannot yet be called a success&nbsp;as the legal battle continues.</p>

<p>The respective families are now moving to the Court of Cassation, which is the highest court of appeal in the Arab country.</p>

<p>So far, six appeal hearings have been held in the case including three in the lower court and three in the court of appeal.</p>

<p>The families are hoping to explore the option of prisoner repatriation to India for the eight former navy sailors.</p>

<p>The Indian government has released a statement saying that it is in "close touch with the legal team, as well as family members, to decide on the next steps".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have stood by them since the beginning, and we will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also continue to take up the matter with Qatari authorities."</p>

<p>“The Emir’s pardon can only be applied after the highest court rules on the judgement. This will likely take another three months before a (plea for) pardon can be filed,” one of the family members of the Indian sailors was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.</p>

<p>They further said that the men were present in court, but&nbsp;were not around at the time the verdict was announced.</p>

<p>“They will likely hear from families in their weekly calls or in a meeting with the lawyer and embassy officials in the coming week. They get to make three calls a week,” the relative told The Indian Express.</p>

<h2><strong>India waiting for detailed judgment, says MEA</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian government on Friday said that it would be discussing the next steps with the family members of the eight men and the legal team.</p>

<p>“The sentences have been reduced but I don't have any additional information to share until we see the detailed judgment. We would urge you again not to engage in speculation. The interests of Indians and their family members is our foremost concern. We will also of course be discussing the next possible steps with the legal team and the family members,” Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday.</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry also released an official statement on Thursday after the verdict which read, "We have noted the verdict today of the Court of Appeal of Qatar in the Dahra Global case, in which the sentences have been reduced. The detailed judgement is awaited.</p>

<p>"We are in close touch with the legal team as well as the family members to decide on the next steps. Our Ambassador to Qatar and other officials were present in the Court of Appeal today, along with the family members. We have stood by them since the beginning of the matter and we will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also continue to take up the matter with the Qatari authorities."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The family members of Indian nationals, whose death sentences were commuted by a Qatar court of appeal on Thursday (Dec 28), reacted with caution over the verdict saying that the recent development in the case cannot yet be called a success as the legal battle continues.

The family members of Indian nationals, whose death sentences were commuted by a Qatar court of appeal on Thursday (Dec 28), reacted with caution over the verdict saying that the recent development in the case cannot yet be called a success as the legal battle continues. The respective families are now moving to the Court of Cassation, which is the highest court of appeal in the Arab country. So far, six appeal hearings have been held in the case including three in the lower court and three in the court of appeal. The families are hoping to explore the option of prisoner repatriation to India for the eight former navy sailors. The Indian government has released a statement saying that it is in "close touch with the legal team, as well as family members, to decide on the next steps". "We have stood by them since the beginning, and we will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also continue to take up the matter with Qatari authorities." “The Emir’s pardon can only be applied after the highest court rules on the judgement. This will likely take another three months before a (plea for) pardon can be filed,” one of the family members of the Indian sailors was quoted as saying by The Indian Express. They further said that the men were present in court, but were not around at the time the verdict was announced. “They will likely hear from families in their weekly calls or in a meeting with the lawyer and embassy officials in the coming week. They get to make three calls a week,” the relative told The Indian Express. India waiting for detailed judgment, says MEA The Indian government on Friday said that it would be discussing the next steps with the family members of the eight men and the legal team. “The sentences have been reduced but I don't have any additional information to share until we see the detailed judgment. We would urge you again not to engage in speculation. The interests of Indians and their family members is our foremost concern. We will also of course be discussing the next possible steps with the legal team and the family members,” Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday. #WATCH | On Qatar court commuting death sentence of 8 Indian ex-Navy personnel, MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi says, "The sentences have been reduced but I don't have any additional information to share until we see the detailed judgment. We would urge you again not to engage in… pic.twitter.com/PqJHDq2pgA — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2023 × The ministry also released an official statement on Thursday after the verdict which read, "We have noted the verdict today of the Court of Appeal of Qatar in the Dahra Global case, in which the sentences have been reduced. The detailed judgement is awaited. "We are in close touch with the legal team as well as the family members to decide on the next steps. Our Ambassador to Qatar and other officials were present in the Court of Appeal today, along with the family members. We have stood by them since the beginning of the matter and we will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also continue to take up the matter with the Qatari authorities." (With inputs from agencies)

Legal battle continues for kin as Qatar court commutes death sentence for 8 Indian nationals

<p>India's foreign ministry reacted to the commutation of the death sentence of eight&nbsp;Indian Navy veterans in Qatar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will be waiting for the judgment," Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.</p>

<p>&nbsp;"The interest of the Indians and the family members are of utmost concern,"&nbsp; Bagchi added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Waiting for full judgement," MEA Spox on Qatar ex Indian sailors case <a href="https://t.co/NQAh1xcpdu">pic.twitter.com/NQAh1xcpdu</a></p>
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<p>A Qatari court on Thursday (Dec 28) commuted the death sentence given to eight former Indian Navy personnel earlier this year and sentenced them to prison for varying durations ranging from three to 25 years.</p>

<p>The detailed order of the Qatar court is awaited, but the government on Thursday&nbsp;said that the sentences have been "reduced".</p>

<p>The Indian&nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday (Dec 28) said: "We have noted the verdict today of the Court of Appeal of Qatar in the Dahra Global case, in which the sentences have been reduced."</p>

<p>It added, "The detailed judgment is awaited. We are in close touch with the legal team as well as the family members to decide on the next steps."</p>

<p>In October this year, a Qatari court sentenced the men to death, following which the Indian foreign ministry said it was "exploring all legal options".</p>

<h2><strong>A timeline</strong></h2>

<p>The men were arrested in August 2022 when they were working for&nbsp;Al Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a defence services provider company in Qatar.<br />
<br />
The imprisoned men met India’s ambassador in Doha in October 2022 and received limited access to relatives via phone calls.</p>

<p>In March 2023, the last of multiple bail pleas filed for them was rejected.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Dahra Case: Big relief for 8 Indian Navy veterans on death row in Qatar as court reduces punishment</strong></p>

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<p>A trial began later in March and on October 26, the death sentences were handed.</p>

<p>India's Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar then met the family members of the sentenced men.</p>

<p>In November, the Indian foreign ministry&nbsp;announced it had filed an appeal and that its legal team had details of the charges.</p>

<p>The Indian ambassador in Doha also met them in prison on December 3.</p>

<p>The consular access followed days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani on the sidelines of the COP28 summit in Dubai on December 1.</p>


India's foreign ministry reacted to the commutation of the death sentence of eight Indian Navy veterans in Qatar. "We will be waiting for the judgment," Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.

India's foreign ministry reacted to the commutation of the death sentence of eight Indian Navy veterans in Qatar. "We will be waiting for the judgment," Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said. "The interest of the Indians and the family members are of utmost concern," Bagchi added. "Waiting for full judgement," MEA Spox on Qatar ex Indian sailors case pic.twitter.com/NQAh1xcpdu — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 29, 2023 × A Qatari court on Thursday (Dec 28) commuted the death sentence given to eight former Indian Navy personnel earlier this year and sentenced them to prison for varying durations ranging from three to 25 years. The detailed order of the Qatar court is awaited, but the government on Thursday said that the sentences have been "reduced". The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday (Dec 28) said: "We have noted the verdict today of the Court of Appeal of Qatar in the Dahra Global case, in which the sentences have been reduced." It added, "The detailed judgment is awaited. We are in close touch with the legal team as well as the family members to decide on the next steps." In October this year, a Qatari court sentenced the men to death, following which the Indian foreign ministry said it was "exploring all legal options". A timeline The men were arrested in August 2022 when they were working for Al Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a defence services provider company in Qatar. The imprisoned men met India’s ambassador in Doha in October 2022 and received limited access to relatives via phone calls. In March 2023, the last of multiple bail pleas filed for them was rejected. Also watch | Dahra Case: Big relief for 8 Indian Navy veterans on death row in Qatar as court reduces punishment × A trial began later in March and on October 26, the death sentences were handed. India's Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar then met the family members of the sentenced men. In November, the Indian foreign ministry announced it had filed an appeal and that its legal team had details of the charges. The Indian ambassador in Doha also met them in prison on December 3. The consular access followed days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani on the sidelines of the COP28 summit in Dubai on December 1.

India says 'waiting for full judgment' after reduced sentence for Navy veterans in Qatar

Qatar has reduced the death sentence given to eight ex-Indian Navy personnel. The verdict reduces the death penalty of former Navy officers to jail term. India's Ministry of External Affairs said govt. is in "close touch with the legal team, as well as family members”.

Qatar commutes death sentence of 8 Indians, sentence reduced to 3-25 years in jail

Qatar has agreed to supply Shell in Singapore with up to 18 million barrels of oil a year for five years in what the Gulf state's energy company said was its first ever five-year crude sales deal.

Qatar Energy & Shell ink 5-year-deal for 18 mn barrels a year | CrudeOil Deal

<p>In a recent development, QatarEnergy has inked a significant five-year crude oil supply deal with Shell International Eastern Trading Company, Singapore, a subsidiary of Shell.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white">Commencing in January 2024, this landmark agreement entails the supply of up to 18 million barrels per annum of Qatar’s indigenous crude oils, including Qatar Land and Qatar Marine, CNBC reported. &nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white">Expressing his enthusiasm, Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs and the President and CEO of QatarEnergy, said: "We are delighted to sign our first-ever five-year crude sales agreement," CNBC quoted him as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white">Emphasising the broader significance, he added, "This agreement further strengthens QatarEnergy’s relationship with Shell, a major customer and a strategic partner. Our historic relationship with Shell extends beyond mere transactional interactions to deeper, more strategic cooperation."&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white">While the recent deal marks a new chapter in the ongoing collaboration between QatarEnergy and Shell, the roots of their relationship run deep, nurtured over the years through shared investments in the energy industry. &nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white">Key joint ventures include QatarEnergy LNG projects, the Pearl GTL Plant, and various other substantial investments, showcasing the synergies derived from combining QatarEnergy’s resources with Shell’s global energy expertise.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white">This strategic move aligns with QatarEnergy's overarching strategy to expand its global footprint and solidify its standing as a leading energy supplier. &nbsp;</p>

<p data-ogsb="white">By bridging Qatar's local resources with Shell’s extensive international market reach, this agreement sets a precedent for future long-term partnerships in the dynamic and competitive global energy market.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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In a recent development, QatarEnergy has inked a significant five-year crude oil supply deal with Shell International Eastern Trading Company, Singapore, a subsidiary of Shell.

In a recent development, QatarEnergy has inked a significant five-year crude oil supply deal with Shell International Eastern Trading Company, Singapore, a subsidiary of Shell. Commencing in January 2024, this landmark agreement entails the supply of up to 18 million barrels per annum of Qatar’s indigenous crude oils, including Qatar Land and Qatar Marine, CNBC reported. Expressing his enthusiasm, Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs and the President and CEO of QatarEnergy, said: "We are delighted to sign our first-ever five-year crude sales agreement," CNBC quoted him as saying. Emphasising the broader significance, he added, "This agreement further strengthens QatarEnergy’s relationship with Shell, a major customer and a strategic partner. Our historic relationship with Shell extends beyond mere transactional interactions to deeper, more strategic cooperation." While the recent deal marks a new chapter in the ongoing collaboration between QatarEnergy and Shell, the roots of their relationship run deep, nurtured over the years through shared investments in the energy industry. Key joint ventures include QatarEnergy LNG projects, the Pearl GTL Plant, and various other substantial investments, showcasing the synergies derived from combining QatarEnergy’s resources with Shell’s global energy expertise. This strategic move aligns with QatarEnergy's overarching strategy to expand its global footprint and solidify its standing as a leading energy supplier. By bridging Qatar's local resources with Shell’s extensive international market reach, this agreement sets a precedent for future long-term partnerships in the dynamic and competitive global energy market. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

QatarEnergy forges strategic five-year crude oil pact with Shell  

Qatar reduces death penalty of eight ex-navy Indian officers to jail terms

3 weeks after PM Narendra Modi met Qatar's Emir in Dubai, a Qatari court has reduced the sentence of 8 Indians who were put on death row. Molly Gambhir tells you how this is a big win for India's diplomatic efforts.

Gravitas: Qatar court reduces sentence of eight Indians

In a recent development, a Qatar court has decided to reduce the sentences handed to eight Indian nationals who were convicted last month in connection with an alleged espionage case.

Qatar reduces sentences of eight Indian nationals on death row | Dahra Global Case

Qatar reduces sentences of eight Indian nationals on death row

<p>In a recent development, a Qatar court has decided to reduce the death sentences handed to eight Indian nationals who were convicted last month in connection with an alleged espionage case.</p>

<p>"We have noted the verdict today of the Court of Appeal of Qatar in the Dahra Global case, in which the sentences have been reduced...The detailed judgement is awaited....Our Ambassador to Qatar and other officials were present in the Court of Appeal today, along with the family members. We have stood by them since the beginning of the matter and we will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also continue to take up the matter with the Qatari authorities," the official statement&nbsp;from India's external affairs ministry read.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>This decision follows the acceptance of an appeal by the Indian government against the initial death sentences on these nationals. The Court of First Instance in Qatar acknowledged the appeal, leading to a revision of the sentences initially awarded to the individuals involved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian nationals faced charges filed on March 25 and underwent legal proceedings according to Qatari law. A detailed judgement by Qatar court in the case is awaited.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch this report</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/dahra-case-big-relief-for-8-indian-navy-veterans-on-death-row-in-qatar-as-court-reduces-punishment-674389/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>India focused&nbsp;to bring them back&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>India is concentrating its efforts on repatriating the eight nationals. In a recent press briefing, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi stressed on&nbsp;India's commitment to addressing the issue, stating that the government is actively working to bring its citizens back home as soon as possible.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-indian-pm-to-announce-massive-cuts-in-petrol-diesel-prices-before-year-end-674383">Also read |&nbsp;Exclusive: Indian PM to announce massive cuts in petrol, diesel prices before year end</a></p>

<p>“We have said this is an important issue that we are following, and [looking at] how we can get our people back to India at the earliest. That is what is driving us," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a recent development, a Qatar court has decided to reduce the death sentences handed to eight Indian nationals who were convicted last month in connection with an alleged espionage case.

In a recent development, a Qatar court has decided to reduce the death sentences handed to eight Indian nationals who were convicted last month in connection with an alleged espionage case. "We have noted the verdict today of the Court of Appeal of Qatar in the Dahra Global case, in which the sentences have been reduced...The detailed judgement is awaited....Our Ambassador to Qatar and other officials were present in the Court of Appeal today, along with the family members. We have stood by them since the beginning of the matter and we will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also continue to take up the matter with the Qatari authorities," the official statement from India's external affairs ministry read. "We have noted the verdict today of the Court of Appeal of Qatar in the Dahra Global case, in which the sentences have been reduced...The detailed judgement is awaited....Our Ambassador to Qatar and other officials were present in the Court of Appeal today, along with the family… pic.twitter.com/ysjVhbisaK — ANI (@ANI) December 28, 2023 × This decision follows the acceptance of an appeal by the Indian government against the initial death sentences on these nationals. The Court of First Instance in Qatar acknowledged the appeal, leading to a revision of the sentences initially awarded to the individuals involved. The Indian nationals faced charges filed on March 25 and underwent legal proceedings according to Qatari law. A detailed judgement by Qatar court in the case is awaited. Also watch this report India focused to bring them back India is concentrating its efforts on repatriating the eight nationals. In a recent press briefing, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi stressed on India's commitment to addressing the issue, stating that the government is actively working to bring its citizens back home as soon as possible. Also read | Exclusive: Indian PM to announce massive cuts in petrol, diesel prices before year end “We have said this is an important issue that we are following, and [looking at] how we can get our people back to India at the earliest. That is what is driving us," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Dahra Case: Big relief for 8 Indian Navy veterans on death row in Qatar as court reduces punishment

Dahra Global Case: Qatar reduces sentences of eight Indian nationals on death row

<p>Hamas and its allied Islamic Jihad have refused to accept the Egyptian proposal to renounce power in exchange for a permanent ceasefire, news agency Reuters quoted two Egyptian security sources as saying on Monday.</p>

<p>Reportedly both the groups rejected delivering any other settlements beyond the potential release of more hostages seized on Oct 7 when militants broke into southern Israel, claiming the lives of 1,200 people.</p>

<p>Earlier, Egypt had proposed a plan, which is dubbed as "vision", that would involve a ceasefire in exchange for the release of more hostages further leading to a broader agreement involving a permanent ceasefire along with an overhaul of leadership in Gaza, which is at present led by Palestinian militant group Hamas.</p>

<p>The proposal was also backed by Qatari mediators.</p>

<p>As per Reuters, a Hamas official recently visited Cairo and declined to directly comment on specific offers of more temporary humanitarian truces and indicated the group's rejection by reiterating its official stance on the matter.</p>

<p>"Hamas seeks to end the Israeli aggression against our people, the massacres and genocide, and we discussed with our Egyptian brothers the ways to do that," the official told Reuters.</p>

<p>"We also said that the aid for our people must keep going and must increase and it must reach all the population in the north and the south," the official added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yahya-sinwar-releases-first-public-message-since-oct-7-says-hamas-facing-unprecedented-battle-673519">Yahya Sinwar releases first public message since Oct 7, says Hamas facing ‘unprecedented battle’</a></p>

<p>"After the aggression is stopped and the aid increased we are ready to discuss prisoner swaps," he further said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Egypt-led efforts to bring peace in Gaza&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh returned to Qatar on Saturday (Dec 23) after a four-day visit to Cairo to discuss the Egyptian proposal with the Hamas political bureau. On Sunday, a delegation of the Islamic Jihad arrived in Cairo for talks with Egyptian officials.</p>

<p>The Israel-Hamas war entered Day 79 on Christmas Eve of 2023. The war which began on October 7 when the Palestinian armed groups attacked southern Israel and killed about 1,200 Israelis, has resulted in an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip as Israel's retaliatory attacks have killed over 20,000 Palestinians so far.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>


Hamas and its allied Islamic Jihad have refused to accept the Egyptian proposal to renounce power in exchange for a permanent ceasefire, news agency Reuters quoted two Egyptian security sources as saying on Monday.

Hamas and its allied Islamic Jihad have refused to accept the Egyptian proposal to renounce power in exchange for a permanent ceasefire, news agency Reuters quoted two Egyptian security sources as saying on Monday. Reportedly both the groups rejected delivering any other settlements beyond the potential release of more hostages seized on Oct 7 when militants broke into southern Israel, claiming the lives of 1,200 people. Earlier, Egypt had proposed a plan, which is dubbed as "vision", that would involve a ceasefire in exchange for the release of more hostages further leading to a broader agreement involving a permanent ceasefire along with an overhaul of leadership in Gaza, which is at present led by Palestinian militant group Hamas. The proposal was also backed by Qatari mediators. As per Reuters, a Hamas official recently visited Cairo and declined to directly comment on specific offers of more temporary humanitarian truces and indicated the group's rejection by reiterating its official stance on the matter. "Hamas seeks to end the Israeli aggression against our people, the massacres and genocide, and we discussed with our Egyptian brothers the ways to do that," the official told Reuters. "We also said that the aid for our people must keep going and must increase and it must reach all the population in the north and the south," the official added. Also read: Yahya Sinwar releases first public message since Oct 7, says Hamas facing ‘unprecedented battle’ "After the aggression is stopped and the aid increased we are ready to discuss prisoner swaps," he further said. Egypt-led efforts to bring peace in Gaza Hamas politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh returned to Qatar on Saturday (Dec 23) after a four-day visit to Cairo to discuss the Egyptian proposal with the Hamas political bureau. On Sunday, a delegation of the Islamic Jihad arrived in Cairo for talks with Egyptian officials. The Israel-Hamas war entered Day 79 on Christmas Eve of 2023. The war which began on October 7 when the Palestinian armed groups attacked southern Israel and killed about 1,200 Israelis, has resulted in an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip as Israel's retaliatory attacks have killed over 20,000 Palestinians so far. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Hamas, Islamic Jihad reject renouncing power in exchange for permanent ceasefire: Report

<p>A senior Israeli envoy on Saturday (Dec 16) held a meeting with the prime minister of Qatar, a key mediator in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, news agency Reuters reported citing sources.</p>

<p>As per reports, sources from Egypt suggested that Israel appeared to be more open to a new deal with the Palestinian militant group Hamas.</p>

<p>The meeting that took place between David Barnea and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani was the very first one between senior officials from Israel and Qatar.</p>

<p>In another sign of a possible breakthrough, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would convene his security cabinet and deliver a televised statement on Saturday evening.</p>

<h2><strong>Hostages killed by Israeli army</strong></h2>

<p>In another development from the ongoing conflict, the Israeli army on Saturday said that at least three hostages were mistakenly killed by the Israeli army were carrying a white flag and also cried for help in Hebrew.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-destroyer-shots-down-suspected-attack-drone-targeting-red-sea-shipping-670312">UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping'</a></p>

<p>Family members of other hostages held in Gaza urged the Israeli government to pause the fighting and make a truce to secure their release.</p>

<p>Yotam Haim, Alon Shamriz and Samer El-Talalqa, all in their 20s, were shot during operations in Gaza City on Friday, prompting demonstrations in Israel.</p>

<p>Army spokesman Daniel Hagari said that during fighting in the Shejaiya district of Gaza City, troops "mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat and as a result, fired toward them and the hostages were killed".</p>

<p>An army official said the hostages were all "without shirts" and had "a stick with a white cloth on it", but a soldier felt threatened and opened fire.</p>

<p>"Two are killed immediately, one is injured and runs back into the building," the official said, adding that the soldiers heard "a cry for help... in Hebrew".</p>

<p>Despite a ceasefire order, "there's another burst of fire towards the third figure and he also dies."</p>

<h2><strong>United States urges Israel to narrow campaign</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, called on Israel to scale down its Gaza campaign and transition to more narrowly targeted operations against Hamas leaders, said the US official.</p>

<p>This came after Netanyahu reiterated that "nothing could stop" his country from continuing the war until it achieves victory against the Palestinian militant group.</p>

<p>"We will continue until the end. There is no question at all. I say this in light of great pain, but also in light of international pressure. Nothing will stop us. We are going until the end, until victory, nothing less than that," Netanyahu said in a video statement released by his office.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A senior Israeli envoy on Saturday (Dec 16) held a meeting with the prime minister of Qatar, a key mediator in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, news agency Reuters reported citing sources.

A senior Israeli envoy on Saturday (Dec 16) held a meeting with the prime minister of Qatar, a key mediator in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, news agency Reuters reported citing sources. As per reports, sources from Egypt suggested that Israel appeared to be more open to a new deal with the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The meeting that took place between David Barnea and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani was the very first one between senior officials from Israel and Qatar. In another sign of a possible breakthrough, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would convene his security cabinet and deliver a televised statement on Saturday evening. Hostages killed by Israeli army In another development from the ongoing conflict, the Israeli army on Saturday said that at least three hostages were mistakenly killed by the Israeli army were carrying a white flag and also cried for help in Hebrew. Also read: UK destroyer shoots down suspected attack drone 'targeting Red Sea shipping' Family members of other hostages held in Gaza urged the Israeli government to pause the fighting and make a truce to secure their release. Yotam Haim, Alon Shamriz and Samer El-Talalqa, all in their 20s, were shot during operations in Gaza City on Friday, prompting demonstrations in Israel. Army spokesman Daniel Hagari said that during fighting in the Shejaiya district of Gaza City, troops "mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat and as a result, fired toward them and the hostages were killed". An army official said the hostages were all "without shirts" and had "a stick with a white cloth on it", but a soldier felt threatened and opened fire. "Two are killed immediately, one is injured and runs back into the building," the official said, adding that the soldiers heard "a cry for help... in Hebrew". Despite a ceasefire order, "there's another burst of fire towards the third figure and he also dies." United States urges Israel to narrow campaign US President Joe Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, called on Israel to scale down its Gaza campaign and transition to more narrowly targeted operations against Hamas leaders, said the US official. This came after Netanyahu reiterated that "nothing could stop" his country from continuing the war until it achieves victory against the Palestinian militant group. "We will continue until the end. There is no question at all. I say this in light of great pain, but also in light of international pressure. Nothing will stop us. We are going until the end, until victory, nothing less than that," Netanyahu said in a video statement released by his office. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israel-Hamas war: Mossad and Qatar officials meet amid fresh hopes of truce talks

<p>Three Israeli hostages accidently killed by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops were shirtless and waving a white flag when they&nbsp;were mistaken for being militants, according to an IDF official. Meanwhile, thousands of Israelis took to the streets in the city of Tel Aviv urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to secure the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by troops</strong></h2>

<p>Three Israeli hostages – Yotam Haim (28), Samer Talalka (22), and Alon Shamriz (26) – were killed in Gaza’s Shejaiya on Friday (Dec 15) around 10:00 am (local time), said an Israeli military official. The case, according to the IDF, was “against our rules of engagement” and had prompted an investigation at the “highest level”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The initial probe revealed that a soldier stationed at a building identified three suspicious figures emerging from another building around several dozen metres away, reported Times of Israel citing a senior IDF official.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All three were shirtless and one of them was carrying a stick with a white cloth. According to the initial probe, the soldier thought it was an attempt by Hamas to lure them into a trap and immediately opened fire and shouted “terrorists!”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The soldier, according to the probe, killed two men, while the third one returned to the building he emerged from. Subsequently, the commander of the battalion went outside and asked the troops to stop firing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The third hostage was heard shouting “Help” in Hebrew and came out of the building and another soldier opened fire at him and fatally shot him, it was found after the initial probe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wichian Temthong, a freed Thai hostage, told BBC, that he was “very shocked” and “saddened” to learn about the deaths of the three men with whom he had spent nearly 50 days in captivity.</p>

<p>“We couldn’t speak each other’s languages, so we mostly did hand signals and drawing to communicate,” the Thai worker told BBC. Four of them would shake hands and make a hand gesture to say “keep on fighting” every day to boost their moral support, said Wichian.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>New negotiations are underway?</strong></h2>

<p>Netanyahu made an&nbsp;appearance on TV&nbsp;to confirm on Saturday (Dec 16) that new negotiations were underway for release of&nbsp;hostages held by Hamas. A report by Reuters citing a source said that the chief of Israel’s Mossad spy agency, David Barnea, met Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Europe late on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting indicates a possible new Gaza truce and a prisoner and hostage deal. Meanwhile, in Israel, in a speech followed by the news of the three&nbsp;hostages being mistakenly killed, the Israeli PM said that their deaths “broke the hearts of the nation” but vowed to “continue until victory”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Netanyahu, in a televised speech, spoke about how the Israeli offensive in Gaza has helped clinch a partial hostage-release deal in November and vowed to maintain intense military pressure on Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The instruction I am giving the negotiating team is predicated on this pressure, without which we have nothing,” said the Israeli PM.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Hamas, in a statement said that the group “affirms its position not to open any negotiations to exchange prisoners unless the aggression against our people stops once and for all.” It added, “The movement communicated this position to all mediators.”</p>

<h2><strong>Netanyahu government under pressure</strong></h2>

<p>Israelis continue to put pressure on the Netanyahu government to secure the release of the more than 100 hostages still in Gaza. Hundreds took to the streets in Tel Aviv after the news of the three hostages being mistakenly killed by IDF.</p>

<p>The demonstrators marched toward the IDF’s headquarters chanting, “Their time is running out! Bring them home now!”, quoted Times of Israel. “There is no victory until every last hostage is released!”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tagit Tzin, the aunt of Dafna (15) and Ela Elyakim (9) who were freed from Gaza last month, told The Independent that while the families understood the military mistakenly killed the three hostages, she believes the error highlights how the only way to retrieve the hostages safely was through a truce deal, not military action.</p>

<p>“Only a ceasefire deal will bring the hostages out alive and not put our soldiers in danger like this,” said Tzin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>


Three Israeli hostages accidently killed by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops were shirtless and waving a white flag when they were mistaken for being militants, according to an IDF official.

Three Israeli hostages accidently killed by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops were shirtless and waving a white flag when they were mistaken for being militants, according to an IDF official. Meanwhile, thousands of Israelis took to the streets in the city of Tel Aviv urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to secure the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by troops Three Israeli hostages – Yotam Haim (28), Samer Talalka (22), and Alon Shamriz (26) – were killed in Gaza’s Shejaiya on Friday (Dec 15) around 10:00 am (local time), said an Israeli military official. The case, according to the IDF, was “against our rules of engagement” and had prompted an investigation at the “highest level”. The initial probe revealed that a soldier stationed at a building identified three suspicious figures emerging from another building around several dozen metres away, reported Times of Israel citing a senior IDF official. All three were shirtless and one of them was carrying a stick with a white cloth. According to the initial probe, the soldier thought it was an attempt by Hamas to lure them into a trap and immediately opened fire and shouted “terrorists!”. The soldier, according to the probe, killed two men, while the third one returned to the building he emerged from. Subsequently, the commander of the battalion went outside and asked the troops to stop firing. The third hostage was heard shouting “Help” in Hebrew and came out of the building and another soldier opened fire at him and fatally shot him, it was found after the initial probe. Wichian Temthong, a freed Thai hostage, told BBC, that he was “very shocked” and “saddened” to learn about the deaths of the three men with whom he had spent nearly 50 days in captivity. “We couldn’t speak each other’s languages, so we mostly did hand signals and drawing to communicate,” the Thai worker told BBC. Four of them would shake hands and make a hand gesture to say “keep on fighting” every day to boost their moral support, said Wichian. New negotiations are underway? Netanyahu made an appearance on TV to confirm on Saturday (Dec 16) that new negotiations were underway for release of hostages held by Hamas. A report by Reuters citing a source said that the chief of Israel’s Mossad spy agency, David Barnea, met Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Europe late on Friday. The meeting indicates a possible new Gaza truce and a prisoner and hostage deal. Meanwhile, in Israel, in a speech followed by the news of the three hostages being mistakenly killed, the Israeli PM said that their deaths “broke the hearts of the nation” but vowed to “continue until victory”. Netanyahu, in a televised speech, spoke about how the Israeli offensive in Gaza has helped clinch a partial hostage-release deal in November and vowed to maintain intense military pressure on Hamas. “The instruction I am giving the negotiating team is predicated on this pressure, without which we have nothing,” said the Israeli PM. Meanwhile, Hamas, in a statement said that the group “affirms its position not to open any negotiations to exchange prisoners unless the aggression against our people stops once and for all.” It added, “The movement communicated this position to all mediators.” Netanyahu government under pressure Israelis continue to put pressure on the Netanyahu government to secure the release of the more than 100 hostages still in Gaza. Hundreds took to the streets in Tel Aviv after the news of the three hostages being mistakenly killed by IDF. The demonstrators marched toward the IDF’s headquarters chanting, “Their time is running out! Bring them home now!”, quoted Times of Israel. “There is no victory until every last hostage is released!” Tagit Tzin, the aunt of Dafna (15) and Ela Elyakim (9) who were freed from Gaza last month, told The Independent that while the families understood the military mistakenly killed the three hostages, she believes the error highlights how the only way to retrieve the hostages safely was through a truce deal, not military action. “Only a ceasefire deal will bring the hostages out alive and not put our soldiers in danger like this,” said Tzin. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by IDF were waving white flag when troops shot them, reveals initial probe

<p>The Qatargate which erupted on December 9, 2022, and in which no one has been convicted so far, had sent shockwaves through the European Parliament. Cash, corruption, and controversy. Arrests, raids, and political fallout. MEPs losing immunity, confessions, and plea deals. You name it.</p>

<p>The legal drama is still ongoing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On that day of twists and turns, the Qatargate scandal hit headlines in Brussels and across the globe as several officials and their families were linked to a web of corruption.</p>

<p>The controversy is centred on allegations that Qatar channelled cash to influence European Parliament decisions. The allegations also revolve around the governments of Morocco, and Mauritania influencing the European Parliament in their favour through these European officials and lobbyists behind the saga.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As law enforcement authorities in Belgium, Italy, and Greece marched on with an extensive crackdown, arrests were made and many dozens of properties were raided.</p>

<p>The one face that stood out in the array of officials trapped in the controversy was of the fifth Vice President of the European Parliament&nbsp;Eva Kaili.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Kaili is a former anchor at Mega Channel from 2004 until 2007. In January 2023, her partner Francesco Giorgi, in his testimony, claimed that he along with former MEP Antonio Panzeri received bribes to sway votes in favour of Qatar and Morocco. The cash, according to Giorgi, flowed through an organisation co-founded by Panzeri, called Fight Impunity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Giorgi said that Kaili was not involved in the corruption scheme.</p>

<p>Kaili's suspicious actions included voting at the Civil Liberties Committee&nbsp;without notification.&nbsp;This was intended to support a report endorsing the idea of allowing Qatari citizens visa-free travel to the European Union.</p>

<h2><strong>Raid and arrests</strong></h2>

<p>In a dramatic turn of events, Belgian authorities executed 20 raids across Brussels, seizing €1.5 million in cash.</p>

<p>Eight arrests, including Kaili, Panzeri, and Kaili's father, followed. Kaili lost parliamentary immunity after her father's arrest at a Brussels hotel, where he was caught with a suitcase carrying "several hundred thousand euros."</p>

<p>The arrests extended to Panzeri's home, revealing a large stash of cash in a safe. Offices of the NGO Fight Impunity, led by Panzeri, were also searched.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Qatargate&nbsp;extended its reach to MEPs Tarabella and Cozzolino, who faced requests to strip their parliamentary immunity.&nbsp;Both eventually faced arrest on charges of corruption, money laundering, and participating in a criminal organisation.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opec-head-told-members-to-block-any-deal-at-cop28-that-targets-fossil-fuels-report-667897">OPEC head told members to block any deal at COP28 that targets fossil fuels: Report</a></p>

<p>Morocco's involvement became apparent when Panzeri's European Arrest Warrant implicated the nation.</p>

<p>Reports surfaced of bribes, gifts, and luxury stays received by Panzeri from the Moroccan government. The investigation even pointed at&nbsp;the MEPs' trip to Laayoune in Western Sahara, sponsored by the Moroccan parliament.</p>

<h2><strong>Legal fallout&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Legal actions were taken freezing Kaili's assets and seizing properties.</p>

<p>The European Public Prosecutor's Office requested the lifting of Kaili's parliamentary immunity, citing suspicion of fraud related to parliamentary allowances. The fallout extended to other MEPs like Maria Spyraki.</p>

<p>In a surprising twist, Kaili claimed to have been monitored due to her work on the parliament's committee investigating the Pegasus spyware. She alleged spying by Belgium, Spain, France, and Morocco on the European Parliament's committee.</p>

<p>Spanish activist Miguel Urban suggested a deeper "Moroccogate" affair, calling for a retrospective review of Moroccan influence on European Parliament activities.</p>

<p>As the legal proceedings continue, some confessed to receiving funds from Qatar and Morocco.</p>

<p>Panzeri's guilty plea under a plea deal points to the involvement of various nations in bribing MEPs. However, the scandal faced challenges as the Belgian judge leading the probe stepped down as allegations of a conflict of interest gained ground. The scandal's impact reverberated through the EU and received strong reactions and suspensions of implicated officials.</p>

<h2><strong>What's the latest on the case?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Except for Panzeri and Giorgi, all individuals involved maintain their innocence. The governments of the three nations involved have either denied any connection or chosen not to comment on the matter.</p>

<p>What comes against the backdrop of the first anniversary of the infamous Qatargate&nbsp;is an investigation by Politico which revealed leaked case files providing evidence of 300 alleged attempts to manipulate EU democracy.</p>

<p>Currently, none of the individuals linked to the Qatar corruption scandal&nbsp;are in custody. Most of them are required to wear electronic monitoring devices.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/saudi-arabias-giant-swing-europes-winter-wonderland-667925">Saudi Arabia's Giant Swing &amp; Europe's Winter Wonderland</a></strong></p>

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<p>Kaili, who vehemently denies the charges and claims her innocence, has even been permitted to resume her activities in Parliament.</p>

<p>However, the presence of individuals like Kaili in the parliamentary setting has been described as "bizarre" by Freund, a German Green MEP.</p>

<p>Lawyer representing Kaili, Sven Mary, once said,&nbsp;"You cannot call this file anymore Qatargate. That's over. You have to call the file Belgium-gate." This came as the Greek MEP took an offensive stance accusing the Belgian judiciary of overstepping in its investigations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Qatargate which erupted on December 9, 2022, and in which no one has been convicted so far, had sent shockwaves through the European Parliament. Cash, corruption, and controversy.

The Qatargate which erupted on December 9, 2022, and in which no one has been convicted so far, had sent shockwaves through the European Parliament. Cash, corruption, and controversy. Arrests, raids, and political fallout. MEPs losing immunity, confessions, and plea deals. You name it. The legal drama is still ongoing. On that day of twists and turns, the Qatargate scandal hit headlines in Brussels and across the globe as several officials and their families were linked to a web of corruption. The controversy is centred on allegations that Qatar channelled cash to influence European Parliament decisions. The allegations also revolve around the governments of Morocco, and Mauritania influencing the European Parliament in their favour through these European officials and lobbyists behind the saga. As law enforcement authorities in Belgium, Italy, and Greece marched on with an extensive crackdown, arrests were made and many dozens of properties were raided. The one face that stood out in the array of officials trapped in the controversy was of the fifth Vice President of the European Parliament Eva Kaili. Also Read | Tech’s dark world: Apps, websites misuse AI for undressing women in photos, gain popularity Kaili is a former anchor at Mega Channel from 2004 until 2007. In January 2023, her partner Francesco Giorgi, in his testimony, claimed that he along with former MEP Antonio Panzeri received bribes to sway votes in favour of Qatar and Morocco. The cash, according to Giorgi, flowed through an organisation co-founded by Panzeri, called Fight Impunity. Giorgi said that Kaili was not involved in the corruption scheme. Kaili's suspicious actions included voting at the Civil Liberties Committee without notification. This was intended to support a report endorsing the idea of allowing Qatari citizens visa-free travel to the European Union. Raid and arrests In a dramatic turn of events, Belgian authorities executed 20 raids across Brussels, seizing €1.5 million in cash. Eight arrests, including Kaili, Panzeri, and Kaili's father, followed. Kaili lost parliamentary immunity after her father's arrest at a Brussels hotel, where he was caught with a suitcase carrying "several hundred thousand euros." The arrests extended to Panzeri's home, revealing a large stash of cash in a safe. Offices of the NGO Fight Impunity, led by Panzeri, were also searched. The Qatargate extended its reach to MEPs Tarabella and Cozzolino, who faced requests to strip their parliamentary immunity. Both eventually faced arrest on charges of corruption, money laundering, and participating in a criminal organisation. Also Read | OPEC head told members to block any deal at COP28 that targets fossil fuels: Report Morocco's involvement became apparent when Panzeri's European Arrest Warrant implicated the nation. Reports surfaced of bribes, gifts, and luxury stays received by Panzeri from the Moroccan government. The investigation even pointed at the MEPs' trip to Laayoune in Western Sahara, sponsored by the Moroccan parliament. Legal fallout Legal actions were taken freezing Kaili's assets and seizing properties. The European Public Prosecutor's Office requested the lifting of Kaili's parliamentary immunity, citing suspicion of fraud related to parliamentary allowances. The fallout extended to other MEPs like Maria Spyraki. In a surprising twist, Kaili claimed to have been monitored due to her work on the parliament's committee investigating the Pegasus spyware. She alleged spying by Belgium, Spain, France, and Morocco on the European Parliament's committee. Spanish activist Miguel Urban suggested a deeper "Moroccogate" affair, calling for a retrospective review of Moroccan influence on European Parliament activities. As the legal proceedings continue, some confessed to receiving funds from Qatar and Morocco. Panzeri's guilty plea under a plea deal points to the involvement of various nations in bribing MEPs. However, the scandal faced challenges as the Belgian judge leading the probe stepped down as allegations of a conflict of interest gained ground. The scandal's impact reverberated through the EU and received strong reactions and suspensions of implicated officials. What's the latest on the case? Except for Panzeri and Giorgi, all individuals involved maintain their innocence. The governments of the three nations involved have either denied any connection or chosen not to comment on the matter. What comes against the backdrop of the first anniversary of the infamous Qatargate is an investigation by Politico which revealed leaked case files providing evidence of 300 alleged attempts to manipulate EU democracy. Currently, none of the individuals linked to the Qatar corruption scandal are in custody. Most of them are required to wear electronic monitoring devices. Watch | Saudi Arabia's Giant Swing & Europe's Winter Wonderland × Kaili, who vehemently denies the charges and claims her innocence, has even been permitted to resume her activities in Parliament. However, the presence of individuals like Kaili in the parliamentary setting has been described as "bizarre" by Freund, a German Green MEP. Lawyer representing Kaili, Sven Mary, once said, "You cannot call this file anymore Qatargate. That's over. You have to call the file Belgium-gate." This came as the Greek MEP took an offensive stance accusing the Belgian judiciary of overstepping in its investigations. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Qatargate scandal: Cash, corruption, raids, and arrests shook European Parliament a year ago

December 9, 2022, started like any other cold, unremarkable Friday in Brussels. The following week, European Union lawmakers would head to the French city of Strasbourg for one of their regular plenary sessions, and preparations were underway.

One year since 'Qatargate' scandal roiled EU parliament

<p>Indian ambassador in Doha, Qatar has met Indian sailors for the first time since they were handed death sentence&nbsp;by a court in the gulf country. The meeting took place in a prison on December 3.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;consular access to these sailors came just a couple of days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani during COP28 Summit on December 1.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | NSA level meet: Nations agree on security roadmap for Indian Ocean region</strong></p>

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<p>The Indian sailors were given consular access on November 7, but the December 3 meet was the first time the Indian ambassador to Qatar Mr Vipul was able to meet them.</p>

<p>“We are closely following the matter and extending all legal and consular assistance… Our ambassador got consular access to meet all eight of them in prison on December 3,” said Arindam Bagchi, Spokesperson of India's Ministry of External Affairs.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Charges not public</strong></h2>

<p>Indian government has appealed against the death penalty handed to the sailors. They were reportedly accused of spying for Israel. The charges have not been made public by Qatar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All of these Indian sailors are employees of a Doha-based firm Dahra Global. They were taken into custody in the month of August last year.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-shifts-focus-from-ethanol-to-sugar-production-amid-supply-concerns-667476">India shifts focus from ethanol to sugar production amid supply concerns&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Qatari authorities have not made the charges against the sailors public. India's Ministry of External Affairs has said that the judgment remains confidential and it has been shared with Indian legal team.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-bid-to-bridge-gap-with-common-indians-pm-modi-requests-party-leaders-to-drop-ji-from-his-name-667507">In bid to bridge gap with common Indians, PM Modi requests party leaders to drop 'Ji' from his name</a></strong></p>

<p>India has already termed the death sentences "deeply shocking". India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has already met family members of the Indian sailors and has assured them of the Indian government treating the issue with "the highest importance".</p>

<p>The family members of the eight sailors have also sent a mercy plea to the Emir of Qatar.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian ambassador in Doha, Qatar has met Indian sailors for the first time since they were handed death sentence by a court in the gulf country. The meeting took place in a prison on December 3.

Indian ambassador in Doha, Qatar has met Indian sailors for the first time since they were handed death sentence by a court in the gulf country. The meeting took place in a prison on December 3. The consular access to these sailors came just a couple of days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani during COP28 Summit on December 1. Watch | NSA level meet: Nations agree on security roadmap for Indian Ocean region × The Indian sailors were given consular access on November 7, but the December 3 meet was the first time the Indian ambassador to Qatar Mr Vipul was able to meet them. “We are closely following the matter and extending all legal and consular assistance… Our ambassador got consular access to meet all eight of them in prison on December 3,” said Arindam Bagchi, Spokesperson of India's Ministry of External Affairs. Charges not public Indian government has appealed against the death penalty handed to the sailors. They were reportedly accused of spying for Israel. The charges have not been made public by Qatar. All of these Indian sailors are employees of a Doha-based firm Dahra Global. They were taken into custody in the month of August last year. Also Read | India shifts focus from ethanol to sugar production amid supply concerns Qatari authorities have not made the charges against the sailors public. India's Ministry of External Affairs has said that the judgment remains confidential and it has been shared with Indian legal team. Also Read | In bid to bridge gap with common Indians, PM Modi requests party leaders to drop 'Ji' from his name India has already termed the death sentences "deeply shocking". India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has already met family members of the Indian sailors and has assured them of the Indian government treating the issue with "the highest importance". The family members of the eight sailors have also sent a mercy plea to the Emir of Qatar. (With inputs from agencies)

Qatar: Indian ambassador meets sailors on death row

Red carpet laid out plain landed the German president stood on the tarmac for about half an hour in the sweltering sun this week. The reason was simply that no Qatari official was present at the airport to officially receive the President.

German President left waiting for half-an-hour on his official Doha visit

An update on the ongoing case of eight Indian Sailors in Qatar who received the death penalty on October 26th. India has filed an appeal on behalf of the sailors on death row according to media reports the hearing is scheduled to take place today.

Qatar court to hear case of 8 Indian sailors on death row

<p>The chiefs of the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and Israel's Mossad on Tuesday (Nov 28) met Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman al-Thani in Doha and held a discussion on ways to build on the progress of the extended truce deal between Israel and Hamas by two days, news agency Reuters reported.</p>

<p>The meeting was "to build on the progress of the extended humanitarian pause agreement and to initiate further discussions about the next phase of a potential deal," Reuters quoted a source familiar with the matter as saying.</p>

<p>However, the outcome of the talks held between the three parties, also attended by Egyptian officials, was unclear, the source added.</p>

<p>CIA Director William Burns was in Doha "for meetings on the Israel-Hamas conflict including discussions on hostages," a US official said on condition of anonymity. The official did not elaborate on the matter. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Burns, David Barnea, head of Israel's Mossad intelligence service met with the Qatari prime minister a day after Doha announced the extension of the truce deal by two days, which was originally agreed on to be for four days in the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-frees-12-more-hostages-in-exchange-for-30-palestinian-detainees-in-latest-swap-664073">Hamas frees 12 more hostages in exchange for 30 Palestinian detainees</a></p>

<h2><strong>Extension of truce</strong></h2>

<p>The extension was announced by Qatari foreign ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari via a social media post on the same day when it was due to expire overnight.</p>

<p>"The State of Qatar announces that, as part of the ongoing mediation, an agreement has been reached to extend the humanitarian truce for an additional two days in the Gaza Strip," Ansari wrote.</p>

<p>Qatar, with the support of Egypt and the United States, had for days been engaged in intense negotiations to establish and prolong the truce in Gaza.</p>

<p>The extension was hailed by the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called it a "glimpse of hope and humanity in the middle of the darkness of war".</p>

<p>Welcoming the announcement, the White House, in a statement, expressed hope that the humanitarian pause would continue longer.</p>

<p>"Of course, we welcome the announcement," White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters after mediator Qatar said the initial four-day truce was to be lengthened.</p>

<p>"We would of course hope to see the pause extended further, and that will depend upon Hamas continuing to release hostages."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The chiefs of the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and Israel's Mossad on Tuesday (Nov 28) met Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman al-Thani in Doha and held a discussion on ways to build on the progress of the extended truce deal between Israel and Hamas by two days, news agency Reuters reported.

The chiefs of the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and Israel's Mossad on Tuesday (Nov 28) met Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman al-Thani in Doha and held a discussion on ways to build on the progress of the extended truce deal between Israel and Hamas by two days, news agency Reuters reported. The meeting was "to build on the progress of the extended humanitarian pause agreement and to initiate further discussions about the next phase of a potential deal," Reuters quoted a source familiar with the matter as saying. However, the outcome of the talks held between the three parties, also attended by Egyptian officials, was unclear, the source added. CIA Director William Burns was in Doha "for meetings on the Israel-Hamas conflict including discussions on hostages," a US official said on condition of anonymity. The official did not elaborate on the matter. Burns, David Barnea, head of Israel's Mossad intelligence service met with the Qatari prime minister a day after Doha announced the extension of the truce deal by two days, which was originally agreed on to be for four days in the Gaza Strip. Also read: Hamas frees 12 more hostages in exchange for 30 Palestinian detainees Extension of truce The extension was announced by Qatari foreign ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari via a social media post on the same day when it was due to expire overnight. "The State of Qatar announces that, as part of the ongoing mediation, an agreement has been reached to extend the humanitarian truce for an additional two days in the Gaza Strip," Ansari wrote. Qatar, with the support of Egypt and the United States, had for days been engaged in intense negotiations to establish and prolong the truce in Gaza. The extension was hailed by the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called it a "glimpse of hope and humanity in the middle of the darkness of war". Welcoming the announcement, the White House, in a statement, expressed hope that the humanitarian pause would continue longer. "Of course, we welcome the announcement," White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters after mediator Qatar said the initial four-day truce was to be lengthened. "We would of course hope to see the pause extended further, and that will depend upon Hamas continuing to release hostages." (With inputs from agencies)

CIA and Mossad chiefs meet Qatari prime minister, hold discussions over 'building on' Gaza truce: Report

William J. Burns, the C.I.A. director, arrived in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday for a new round of negotiations aimed at freeing more hostages held in Gaza, according to U.S. officials.

C.I.A. Director arrives in Qatar for talks on hostage releases

<p>A Qatar court on Thursday (Nov 23) accepted India's appeals against the death penalty to eight nationals who have been detained in Doha for over a year. The Qatari court will set a hearing date to re-examine the death penalty awarded to the Indian nationals, based on the appeal, according to an <em>NDTV&nbsp;</em>report, citing sources&nbsp;</p>

<p>The eight men were arrested in August last year by&nbsp;Qatar’s intelligence agency, based on spying allegations.&nbsp;They were all employees of the private firm Al Dahra and had their first trial in late March.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the arrest, the eight men filed several bail petitions but all were rejected before the ultimate verdict was pronounced by the&nbsp;Court of First Instance in Qatar last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the verdict, the Indian&nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement saying it was shocked by the penalty handed to the men.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving eight Indian employees of Al Dahra company," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.</p>

<p>"We are deeply shocked by the verdict of the death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," it added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-indian-navy-officers-awarded-death-penalty-in-qatar-india-expresses-shock-651570"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Eight Indian nationals given death penalty in Qatar, 'deeply shocked' India exploring all legal options</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>MEA working on the release</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier reports claimed that&nbsp;Qatari authorities had neither provided any reason&nbsp;for their arrest, nor any details of the case, including the alleged crime committed by these men.</p>

<p>However, on Thursday, MEA in a fresh statement said:&nbsp;“The judgment is confidential. There is a court of first instance that gave the judgment, which was shared with our legal team. Considering all legal options, an appeal has been filed. We are in touch with the Qatari authorities.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-files-appeal-against-death-penalty-to-8-former-navy-personnel-in-qatar-657242"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India files appeal against death penalty to 8 former Navy personnel in Qatar</strong></a></p>

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<p>India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has assured that the government is giving utmost importance to the case and that the release of the eight men will be the goal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The government attaches the highest importance to the case. [I] fully share the concerns and pain of the families, underlined that Government will continue to make all efforts to secure their release,” said Jaishankar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian embassy in Doha has been making arrangments so that the families of the arrested men can meet them. All of the eight have been in solitary confinement for the major part of their prison sentence.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Qatar court on Thursday (Nov 23) accepted India's appeals against the death penalty to eight nationals who have been detained in Doha for over a year. The Qatari court will set a hearing date to re-examine the death penalty awarded to the Indian nationals, based on the appeal, according to an NDTV report, citing sources The eight men were arrested in August last year by Qatar’s intelligence agency, based on spying allegations.

A Qatar court on Thursday (Nov 23) accepted India's appeals against the death penalty to eight nationals who have been detained in Doha for over a year. The Qatari court will set a hearing date to re-examine the death penalty awarded to the Indian nationals, based on the appeal, according to an NDTV report, citing sources The eight men were arrested in August last year by Qatar’s intelligence agency, based on spying allegations. They were all employees of the private firm Al Dahra and had their first trial in late March. After the arrest, the eight men filed several bail petitions but all were rejected before the ultimate verdict was pronounced by the Court of First Instance in Qatar last month. After the verdict, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement saying it was shocked by the penalty handed to the men. "We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving eight Indian employees of Al Dahra company," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. "We are deeply shocked by the verdict of the death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," it added. Also read | Eight Indian nationals given death penalty in Qatar, 'deeply shocked' India exploring all legal options MEA working on the release Earlier reports claimed that Qatari authorities had neither provided any reason for their arrest, nor any details of the case, including the alleged crime committed by these men. However, on Thursday, MEA in a fresh statement said: “The judgment is confidential. There is a court of first instance that gave the judgment, which was shared with our legal team. Considering all legal options, an appeal has been filed. We are in touch with the Qatari authorities.” Watch | India files appeal against death penalty to 8 former Navy personnel in Qatar × India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has assured that the government is giving utmost importance to the case and that the release of the eight men will be the goal. “The government attaches the highest importance to the case. [I] fully share the concerns and pain of the families, underlined that Government will continue to make all efforts to secure their release,” said Jaishankar. The Indian embassy in Doha has been making arrangments so that the families of the arrested men can meet them. All of the eight have been in solitary confinement for the major part of their prison sentence. (With inputs from agencies)

Qatar court accepts New Delhi's appeal against death penalty to 8 Indian men

<p>After an appeal was filed by India against the death penalty awarded to eight Indian sailors in Qatar, a Qatari court accepted the appeal document on Thursday (Nov 23) and will now study it to announce its decision on the matter.</p>

<p>The next hearing in the case is expected soon with a slight possibility of the court passing a judgement.</p>

<p>The original judgement was passed by the Court of First Instance of Qatar on October 26 to eight men&nbsp;who worked for the Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, almost a year after they were arrested in August 2022.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Qatar Indian National case: Appeal in the case taken up, hearing to continue in the new date</p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1727739378745938184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Expressing shock over the verdict, India had vowed to explore all legal options in the case to secure the release of its citizens.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/serious-threat-to-democracy-india-to-soon-come-up-with-regulations-to-curb-deepfake-menace-661977">'Serious threat to democracy': India to soon introduce regulations to curb deepfake menace</a></p>

<p>"We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving eight Indian employees of Al Dahra company," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Verdict in the case of 8 Indians detained in Qatar: We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options. We attach high importance to this… <a href="https://t.co/l6yAg1GoJe">pic.twitter.com/l6yAg1GoJe</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1717493204839448923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are deeply shocked by the verdict of the death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," it added.</p>

<p>Earlier on Nov 16, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had confirmed that the families of the ones arrested had formally submitted an appeal.</p>

<p>Those sentenced have been identified as Navtej Singh Gill, Birendra Kumar Verma, Saurabh Vasisht, Amit Nagpal, Purnendu Tiwari, Sugunakar Pakala, and Sanjeev Gupta. Their trial began on March 29 after bail pleas were rejected.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After an appeal was filed by India against the death penalty awarded to eight Indian sailors in Qatar, a Qatari court accepted the appeal document on Thursday (Nov 23) and will now study it to announce its decision on the matter.

After an appeal was filed by India against the death penalty awarded to eight Indian sailors in Qatar, a Qatari court accepted the appeal document on Thursday (Nov 23) and will now study it to announce its decision on the matter. The next hearing in the case is expected soon with a slight possibility of the court passing a judgement. The original judgement was passed by the Court of First Instance of Qatar on October 26 to eight men who worked for the Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, almost a year after they were arrested in August 2022. Qatar Indian National case: Appeal in the case taken up, hearing to continue in the new date — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) November 23, 2023 × Expressing shock over the verdict, India had vowed to explore all legal options in the case to secure the release of its citizens. Also read: 'Serious threat to democracy': India to soon introduce regulations to curb deepfake menace "We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving eight Indian employees of Al Dahra company," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. Verdict in the case of 8 Indians detained in Qatar: We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options. We attach high importance to this… pic.twitter.com/l6yAg1GoJe — ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2023 × "We are deeply shocked by the verdict of the death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," it added. Earlier on Nov 16, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had confirmed that the families of the ones arrested had formally submitted an appeal. Those sentenced have been identified as Navtej Singh Gill, Birendra Kumar Verma, Saurabh Vasisht, Amit Nagpal, Purnendu Tiwari, Sugunakar Pakala, and Sanjeev Gupta. Their trial began on March 29 after bail pleas were rejected. (With inputs from agencies)

Qatar court accepts Indian sailors' appeal, next hearing expected soon

Qatar court accepts Indian sailors` appeal, next hearing expected soon

Indian soldiers' death row in Qatar: Indian govt exploring all legal options | World News | WION

Eight India sailors on death row in Qatar, were arrested in August 2022 | World News | WION

<p>The appeal filed by India against the death penalty awarded to eight Indian sailors in Qatar is set to come up for hearing on Thursday (Nov 23).</p>

<p>The Indian men were arrested by Qatari authorities in August 2022, and have been kept in detention without specifying the crimes committed by them. The Court of First Instance of Qatar passed the judgement against those who worked for Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services.</p>

<p>The judgement was passed by the Court of First Instance of Qatar on October 26.</p>

<p>Expressing shock over the verdict, India had vowed to explore all legal options in the case to secure the release of its citizens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving eight Indian employees of Al Dahra company," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.</p>

<p>"We are deeply shocked by the verdict of the death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," it added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Verdict in the case of 8 Indians detained in Qatar: We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options. We attach high importance to this… <a href="https://t.co/l6yAg1GoJe">pic.twitter.com/l6yAg1GoJe</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1717493204839448923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-taking-inputs-shared-by-us-related-to-terrorists-nexus-seriously-bagchi-661637">India reacts to western media reports of US intel on Pannun's assassination&nbsp;plot</a></p>

<h2><strong>Aggrieved families meet Jaishankar</strong></h2>

<p>External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met the family members of the Indian sailors and said that he fully shares their pain and concern.</p>

<p>&nbsp;"Met this morning with the families of the 8 Indians detained in Qatar. Stressed that the Government attaches the highest importance to the case. Fully share the concerns and pain of the families. Underlined that the Government will continue to make all efforts to secure their release. Will coordinate closely with the families in that regard," he said on X.</p>

<p>The New Indian Express, citing a source, reported that the families of the Indians arrested are hoping that the appeal will be considered and that two more appeals will be filed in the court if this one is not accepted.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The appeal filed by India against the death penalty awarded to eight Indian sailors in Qatar is set to come up for hearing on Thursday (Nov 23). The Indian men were arrested by Qatari authorities in August 2022, and have been kept in detention without specifying the crimes committed by them.

The appeal filed by India against the death penalty awarded to eight Indian sailors in Qatar is set to come up for hearing on Thursday (Nov 23). The Indian men were arrested by Qatari authorities in August 2022, and have been kept in detention without specifying the crimes committed by them. The Court of First Instance of Qatar passed the judgement against those who worked for Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services. The judgement was passed by the Court of First Instance of Qatar on October 26. Expressing shock over the verdict, India had vowed to explore all legal options in the case to secure the release of its citizens. "We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving eight Indian employees of Al Dahra company," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. "We are deeply shocked by the verdict of the death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," it added. Verdict in the case of 8 Indians detained in Qatar: We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options. We attach high importance to this… pic.twitter.com/l6yAg1GoJe — ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2023 × Also read: India reacts to western media reports of US intel on Pannun's assassination plot Aggrieved families meet Jaishankar External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met the family members of the Indian sailors and said that he fully shares their pain and concern. "Met this morning with the families of the 8 Indians detained in Qatar. Stressed that the Government attaches the highest importance to the case. Fully share the concerns and pain of the families. Underlined that the Government will continue to make all efforts to secure their release. Will coordinate closely with the families in that regard," he said on X. The New Indian Express, citing a source, reported that the families of the Indians arrested are hoping that the appeal will be considered and that two more appeals will be filed in the court if this one is not accepted. (With inputs from agencies)

Appeal filed against death sentence to 8 Indians by Qatar to come up for hearing on Thursday

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