Trump Criticizes Israel’s Strike on Hamas in Qatar, Calls It “Unhelpful”
Trump Distances Himself From Israel’s Decision
President Donald Trump has voiced rare criticism of Israel after its airstrike on Hamas targets in Qatar, saying the attack “does not advance Israel or America’s goals.” He stressed that the decision was made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu alone and not by his administration.
Trump explained that he was briefed by the US military about the operation but said the notification came “too late to stop it.” He also praised Qatar as a “valued ally and friend” that has worked closely with Washington on Middle East peace initiatives.
Details of the Doha Strike
Hamas confirmed six people were killed in the attack, including one member of Qatar’s security forces. Its senior leadership, however, survived. Reports in Israeli media said the raid involved 15 fighter jets and 10 precision-guided munitions fired at a single target in Doha.
Netanyahu defended the strike, vowing there would be “no immunity” for Hamas leaders. The Israeli military described the action as carefully planned and aimed at senior Hamas officials.
Trump’s Rare Rebuke of Netanyahu
Breaking from his usual stance of firm support for Israel, Trump criticized Netanyahu’s unilateral move.
“Bombing inside Qatar, a sovereign nation and close ally of the United States, does not help Israel or America,” Trump said in a statement.
Later, speaking to reporters, he added, “I’m not thrilled about the way it happened. I feel very badly about it.” He repeated his demand that Hamas release Israeli hostages and promised to issue a fuller statement.
White House and Qatar’s Reactions
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump personally called Qatar’s emir and prime minister to thank them for their cooperation and assured them “such an incident will not happen again.”
Qatar strongly condemned the attack, calling it a “serious violation” of international law. Officials said they were not informed beforehand and only learned of the strike when explosions shook Doha.
Qatar’s Role in Peace Efforts
For more than a decade, Qatar has hosted Hamas’s political bureau and played a central role in indirect talks between Hamas and Israel, particularly after the October 7 attacks.
The Gulf nation also remains a key US partner, hosting 10,000 American troops at the al-Udeid airbase. Earlier this year, Trump announced a $1.2 trillion economic partnership with Qatar, and the country recently gifted him a $400 million aircraft to serve as the next Air Force One.
Fallout and Next Steps
Hamas accused Netanyahu of deliberately undermining peace negotiations, saying the strike proved Israel had no interest in reaching an agreement. The group also held Washington partly responsible due to its unwavering support for Israel.
Netanyahu’s office responded swiftly, insisting the operation was “entirely Israeli-led” and that Israel “takes full responsibility.”
The strike came just days after Hamas expressed openness to new US proposals for a Gaza ceasefire. Despite the setback, the White House said Trump believes the incident “could still open a path toward peace,” noting Netanyahu’s stated desire to reach a deal quickly.