Trump Demands Netanyahu Halt Further Strikes on Qatar

President Donald Trump has explicitly requested Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to refrain from any further military actions against Qatar following the recent airstrike targeting Hamas leaders in Doha. This demand comes after significant backlash from the White House and concerns from regional leaders, as the attack has strained Israel’s relationships and raised questions regarding U.S. foreign policy in the Gulf region.

The Israeli airstrike occurred without prior consultation with Trump or his senior advisers, leading to widespread alarm. A senior official noted that the strike, which marks the seventh military action by Israel since the escalation of conflict on October 7, 2023, has caused considerable damage to Israel’s global standing and potentially jeopardized America’s relationships in the area.

In response to the attack, Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman al-Thani indicated that the nation would reassess its security alliance with the United States, viewing the attack as an act of “betrayal.” During a CNN interview, al-Thani stated that leaders throughout the Gulf region are deliberating over their next steps.

Trump expressed his discontent during a news conference, revealing that he was not only surprised by the timing of the strike but also concerned about its implications. He stated, “I’m not thrilled about the whole situation. I was very unhappy about every aspect.” During a series of calls with Netanyahu, Trump demanded clarity on the Israeli strategy, emphasizing, “It’s unacceptable. I demand that you do not repeat it.”

Following these discussions, Trump communicated with both the Qatari emir and the prime minister, who were reportedly furious over the incident. Al-Thani described the dual aggressions from Iran and Israel within a short timeframe as a severe breach of trust, prompting Qatar to explore alternative security partnerships.

In a video statement released shortly after, Netanyahu defended the airstrike, asserting that it was a necessary measure against terrorism. He suggested that Qatar and other nations harboring terrorists must take action or face Israel’s military response. “I say to Qatar and all nations who harbor terrorists, you either expel them or you bring them to justice. Because if you don’t, we will,” Netanyahu stated.

Netanyahu further compared Israel’s actions to the U.S. response to the 9/11 attacks, indicating that Israel would continue its operations against groups it deems a threat. Yet, this stance contradicts earlier diplomatic overtures, where Netanyahu had previously sought Qatar’s assistance in mediating with Hamas.

Al-Thani, in a direct response, called for accountability, arguing that Netanyahu’s actions violated international law and amounted to “state terror.” He emphasized the need for a coordinated response among Gulf partners, warning that the entire region remains vulnerable.

European leaders and other international voices have joined Qatar in condemning the Israeli strike. Meanwhile, Hamas claims that the attack was ineffective, as its senior leaders reportedly survived the military operation, leaving uncertainty regarding the actual impact on the group’s hierarchy.

As the situation evolves, the implications of these events remain critical for U.S. diplomacy in the Middle East, with the potential for lasting effects on regional stability and international relations.