German President’s Arrival in Middle East Disregarded- Analysis

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier was reportedly kept waiting in the scorching heat for nearly 30 minutes in Doha before the Qatari Foreign Minister arrived to receive him. This delay occurred despite the preparations being in place for Steinmeier’s arrival, with the red carpet rolled out and the guard of honor ready. However, the meeting between Steinmeier and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani later proceeded as scheduled. Steinmeier’s visit to Qatar was focused on discussions to secure the release of the remaining German hostages held by Hamas.

During Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, several German nationals were among the more than 200 hostages taken. Germany has voiced its support for Israel’s right to self-defense in response to the conflict in Gaza, which has led to the deaths of over 16,000 Palestinians, according to the enclave’s Health Ministry.

German media outlet Deutsche Welle (DW) suggested that this delay in receiving President Steinmeier could be seen as a response to statements made by German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock in October. Baerbock stated that Germany does not accept support for terrorism and called on countries like Qatar to take responsibility in stopping terrorism. Qatar, where the Hamas political wing has its office, plays a crucial role in negotiations between Israel and Hamas concerning the release of hostages.

On Tuesday, CIA Director William Burns and Israel’s Mossad intelligence service head David Barnea visited Qatar for talks with Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani regarding the extension of a ceasefire in Gaza and ongoing hostage negotiations.

Source: RT news: German president ignored on arrival in Middle East (VIDEO)