Qatar sentences 8 Indians to death, reportedly on charges of spying for Israel

A Qatari court hands down death sentences to eight Indian employees of a Qatari company on spying charges. According to reports in Indian media, they were arrested on suspicion of spying for Israel on Qatar’s military submarine program.

The Indian government vows in response to explore “all legal options.”

According to Indian media reports, the eight men are retired Indian navy officers who worked for the consulting company Al Dahra, advising the Qatari government on the acquisition of submarines.

India’s External Affairs Ministry says in a statement it is awaiting the detailed judgment in the case.

“We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options,” it says. “We attach high importance to this case and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities.”