Israel’s Strike on Qatar: Tensions Rise in the Gulf
What Happened in Doha
On 9 September 2025, Israel carried out an airstrike in Doha, Qatar’s capital. The strike targeted a meeting of Hamas leaders. Several officials were killed, and a Qatari security guard also died. Reports suggest senior Hamas figures survived.
The airstrike in Doha incident shocked the region. It came at a time when Hamas and Israel were discussing a ceasefire proposal. Instead of easing tensions, the attack has added new layers of uncertainty.
Israel’s Justification
Israel said the strike was an act of self-defense. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pointed to a deadly attack in Jerusalem the previous day, which Israel blamed on Hamas.
He argued that Hamas uses foreign bases not only for negotiations but also for planning violence. Netanyahu warned that nations hosting Hamas must expel its officials or face the risk of future actions.
U.S. Reaction
The United States reacted with caution. President Donald Trump called the strike “unfortunate” and questioned the timing. He said that bombing inside a close U.S. ally created complications.
However, Trump reaffirmed Israel’s right to defend itself. He also urged restraint, stressing that peace efforts should not collapse due to escalating violence. His comments reflect Washington’s attempt to balance support for Israel with its alliance with Qatar.
Qatar’s Response
Qatar strongly condemned the strike. Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani described it as an attack on sovereignty and international law. He accused Israel of undermining ceasefire efforts and destabilizing the Gulf region.
Doha insists the meeting was part of official mediation efforts. Qatar also reserved the right to respond, warning that such actions could push the region toward a wider conflict.
In an interview with CNN on Wednesday, Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani called Israel’s attempted assassination of Hamas leaders in Doha “barbaric” and said “I think that what Netanyahu has done yesterday, he just killed any hope for those hostages.”
Regional Fallout and Global Implications
Arab states quickly expressed solidarity with Qatar. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and others condemned Israel’s move. Analysts fear the strike may weaken Gulf-Israel relations, which had shown signs of cooperation in recent years.
The attack also raises questions about international law. Carrying out strikes in foreign capitals sets a dangerous precedent. Most importantly, the strike risks derailing fragile peace talks, leaving the conflict open to further escalation.
