Dr. Pamelia Riviere
On September 9, 2025, the BBC reported a bold and controversial attempt by Israel to eliminate Hamas leadership in Qatar. This operation resulted in the tragic deaths of five lesser-ranked Hamas officials and a Qatari security officer, according to statements from Qatari authorities. The Israeli strikes targeted the Hamas headquarters in Doha but notably failed to neutralise the top negotiating delegation that was present. Military sources revealed to the Times of Israel that more than ten Israeli Air Force fighter jets were deployed, unleashing over ten precision-guided bombs on the Hamas assembly in Qatar.
The attack unfolded in the West Bay Lagoon area of Doha, a vibrant district known for its array of foreign embassies, schools, supermarkets, and upscale residential compounds. This location, home to both local Qatari citizens and a diverse international community, added a layer of complexity and sensitivity to Israel’s actions. Al Jazeera’s Charles Stratford, reporting from Doha, Qatar, noted that the situation in central Doha has stabilised. However, he observed that the sound of explosions created a significant sense of fear among residents.
Critics condemned the strike as an egregious violation of Qatar’s sovereignty, interpreting it as a deliberate provocation aimed at undermining U.S. President Donald Trump’s ongoing ceasefire initiative and jeopardising the fragile path toward a peaceful two-state resolution. The brutal assault was characterized by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a ‘peacemaking action’, a statement that drew ire and disbelief from observers. Netanyahu defended the attack, claiming it was retaliation for a deadly shooting at a Jerusalem bus stop the previous day and for the Hamas-led assaults that occurred on October 7, 2023.
President Trump, in an unexpected twist, remarked that the U.S. military had informed him of Israel’s intentions to strike Qatar. Trump stated he had attempted to alert Qatari officials of the imminent attack but lamented that it had been ‘too late’. He expressed mixed feelings about the operation, posting on Truth Social about the rapid developments and the ensuing chaos.
The attack occurred at a precarious moment, as Qatar had positioned itself as a key mediator in the complex geopolitics between Israel, the United States, and Hamas, actively seeking a ceasefire in Gaza, as highlighted by Al Jazeera. Trump’s reaction to the strikes was marked by contradictions.
He assured Qatar that such a transgression would not be repeated on its territory yet described the eradication of Hamas as a ‘worthy goal’. He voiced his discontent surrounding the conduct of the operation, stating, “I’m not thrilled about the whole situation. It’s not a good situation. But I will say this, we want the hostages back, but we are not thrilled about the way that went down.” In a follow-up, he promised to provide a more comprehensive statement the following day, underscoring his dissatisfaction with every facet of the incident.
Qatar’s response to the recent Israeli attack raises questions about its geopolitical stance and relationships. Despite having received a luxury Boeing 747 as a gift for President Donald Trump, and a strong commitment to the US as an ally Qatar found itself targeted by Israel’s military actions. He characterized Qatar as a ‘great ally’ and noted his discussions with both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatar’s Emir and Prime Minister, emphasising the need for restraint and diplomacy following the incident.
The Israeli attacks in Qatar, involving the use of extensive munitions, are viewed by many as a violation of international law, particularly given the deaths of six individuals linked to Hamas. CNN reported that this marked an unprecedented operational reach for Israel into Qatari territory. The absence of Qatari military action, despite having Patriot air defense systems and F-15 fighter jets, raises further questions about the nature of their relationship with both Hamas and Israel.
The situation also highlights the complexities of U.S. involvement in the region. Trump’s comments suggest a limited role for the U.S. in mediating the conflict, potentially indicating increased influence of Israeli intelligence within U.S. foreign policy.
Qatar has described the attacks as acts of “state terrorism”
Qatar denies White House claims that US informed Doha about Israeli strikes. Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani says his country ‘reserves the right’ to respond to Israel’s ‘blatant attack’, which he calls a ‘pivotal moment’ for the region.
Speaking during a press conference, he says, “There must be a response from the entire region to such barbaric actions.” Al-Thani also states that the US first warned Qatar of the attack 10 minutes after it had already started. On the matter of Gaza, he says ‘nothing’ will deter them from continuing their mediation in the region, Al Jazeera reported. Qatar stated that the Israeli attack undermines peace efforts and announced measures to prevent similar events, according to foreign ministry spokesman Majed al Ansari.
Some observers express concern about Israel’s approach to negotiations and its prevalence of military action in the region. They encourage nations like Qatar to reassess their alliances and consider strengthening ties with other powers, which might foster a more balanced regional approach. The role of the United States in these developments has been a topic of discussion, with many experts asserting that it extends beyond just support for Israel to encompass various regional dynamics. Observers believe it may be advantageous for Arab nations to reconsider their relations with Israel to promote a unified stance against ongoing hostilities.
There is also a sentiment that calls for accountability with respect to international law violations linked to military actions in Lebanon, Yemen, Syria, Iran, and Doha. U.S. military officials have acknowledged the country’s involvement in supporting Israel. Critics highlight a pattern of U.S. administrations, both Republican and Democratic, remaining closely aligned with Israeli interests. Many analysts speculate that this trajectory may present challenges for U.S. foreign policy moving forward.
The attack aimed at Hamas headquarters has drawn widespread condemnation from international leaders, including UN Secretary General António Guterres, who expressed concern over the potential impact on peace negotiations aimed at resolving the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.
Henry Kissinger once remarked, “It may be dangerous to be America’s enemy, but to be America’s friend is fatal,” suggesting a need for Arab nations to reassess their alliances and utilize their resources for greater independence.
The writer is a freelance and analyst.
