Netanyahu Signals Possible Further Strikes on Hamas Leaders After Qatar Attack
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not ruled out additional strikes on Hamas leaders following last week’s attack in Qatar, asserting that militants would not have immunity “wherever they are.”
Speaking at a joint press conference in Jerusalem with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Netanyahu emphasized that every nation has the right to “defend itself beyond its borders.”
The targeted strike in Qatar, a close US ally, drew international condemnation, including criticism from US President Donald Trump. Hamas reported six deaths but said its senior leaders survived. When asked about US involvement, Netanyahu was unequivocal:
“We did it on our own. Period.”
Rubio defended US relations in the region, stating Washington maintains “strong relationships with our Gulf allies” despite the attack.
Regional Tensions and Qatar’s Role
The meeting between Rubio and Netanyahu comes amid an Arab summit in support of Qatar, where leaders condemned Israel’s actions. Qatar hosts a major US airbase and has played a central role in mediating indirect talks between Hamas and Israel since 2012.
During their Jerusalem visit, Netanyahu and Rubio toured the Western Wall, a symbol of enduring US-Israel ties. Rubio participated in the traditional ritual of placing a note into the wall, while both leaders largely avoided questions regarding the Qatar strike.
Gaza City and Ground Operations
Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are pressing ahead with operations in Gaza City. Residential demolitions continue, with Israel demanding that residents move south. The IDF estimates around 250,000 Palestinians have fled, but many remain due to financial constraints or safety concerns in southern Gaza, where airstrikes have also occurred.
The United Nations has warned that further escalation in an area already experiencing famine could push civilians into “an even deeper catastrophe.”
US-Israel Relations and UN General Assembly
The Netanyahu-Rubio meeting precedes the UN General Assembly, where key US allies including the UK, France, Canada, Australia, and Belgium are expected to recognize the State of Palestine.
This anticipated recognition has fueled debate in Israel over the West Bank, with hardline officials advocating annexation as a strategy to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state.
West Bank Settlements and Annexation Plans
In late August, Israel approved the E1 settlement project east of Jerusalem, a move that could divide the West Bank’s Palestinian population between north and south. Netanyahu stated:
“We are going to fulfil our promise that there will be no Palestinian state. This place belongs to us.”
Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich recently proposed annexing approximately four-fifths of the West Bank. Currently, Israel has built about 160 settlements, housing 700,000 Jewish settlers, alongside 3.3 million Palestinians. These settlements are considered illegal under international law.
US Diplomatic Visits in Occupied East Jerusalem
On Monday, Rubio is scheduled to visit the City of David archaeological park in Silwan, an area of East Jerusalem occupied by Israel. The visit includes the inauguration of the Pilgrimage Road, a tunnel tracing the route to the Biblical Temple Mount (known to Muslims as al-Haram al-Sharif).
Critics argue the project politicizes archaeology and displaces Palestinian residents, while proponents frame it as a celebration of Jewish heritage.
Summary
Netanyahu’s comments signal that Israel may continue targeted operations against Hamas leaders, even in countries allied with the US, while Gaza faces ongoing military pressure. The evolving situation in the West Bank and upcoming UN votes on Palestinian recognition highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics between Israel, Palestine, and key international partners.