NEW DELHI- A Qatar court has commuted the death sentences of eight Indian ex-naval officers, originally handed down in October of the previous year. The individuals were accused of espionage for Israel, a charge yet to be officially confirmed by both India and Qatar. The Indian foreign ministry announced the court's decision, refraining from specifying the new penalties or sentences these individuals would now face.

The ministry acknowledged the verdict of the Qatar Court of Appeal, highlighting the reduction in the severity of the sentences. Maintaining a close connection with the legal team and families involved, India affirmed its commitment to pursuing the matter with Qatari authorities. Due to the confidential nature of the proceedings, the ministry refrained from providing further comments on the case.

This development follows the initial shock expressed by India when the Court of First Instance in Qatar initially imposed the death penalty on the eight men. The individuals were reportedly engaged in a submarine project with a private company for Qatar. Notably, over 800,000 Indian citizens reside and work in Qatar, a country of significance to India as a major supplier of natural gas. As of now, there has been no immediate response from the embassies of Qatar and Israel in New Delhi.