The Presidential Office announced yesterday that Czech President Petr Pavel is set to visit Israel and Qatar, aiming to engage with top political representatives, including Israeli President Yitzhak Herzog and the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Thani. While the date of Pavel’s trip remains unconfirmed, the agenda for both visits is expected to encompass discussions with key figures in the respective nations.

In Israel, Pavel plans to hold talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and War Cabinet member Benny Gantz. Additionally, he intends to meet with the families of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The visit to one of the military bases near the Gaza Strip, attacked by Hamas on October 7, is also on Pavel’s itinerary. It is anticipated that Israel and the Czech Republic will sign a memorandum on cyber cooperation during the visit.

In Qatar, Pavel will engage in discussions with the Emir and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Khalid bin Mohammad Al Attiyah. The President will also visit his compatriots at the Czech Embassy in Doha, fostering diplomatic ties.

The planned visit, however, has stirred controversy, particularly in light of recent protests in Prague urging President Pavel not to extend support to Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Critics argue that Israel’s military actions, prompted by a terrorist attack by Hamas, have resulted in severe humanitarian consequences, including casualties and widespread suffering. The situation in Gaza has prompted allegations of genocide, with hearings commencing at the International Court of Justice over charges brought against Israel by the Government of South Africa.

It’s worth noting that Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky, Prime Minister Petr Fiala, Senate Speaker Milos Vystrcil, and Chamber of Deputies Speaker Marketa Pekarova Adamova have all made visits to Israel in the wake of the Hamas attack. President Pavel’s upcoming trip is expected to further contribute to diplomatic dialogue and cooperation, despite the contentious backdrop of the regional conflict.

Article by Prague Forum