Did Trump Distance Himself from Israeli Strikes in Doha?
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Synopsis
In a complex diplomatic situation, President Trump distances himself from Israeli airstrikes in Doha, asserting Israel acted independently, while promising Qatar that such actions won't happen again. This article explores the intricacies of international relations and the implications of the strikes.
Key Takeaways
- Trump distances his administration from Israeli actions.
- Qatar disputes claims of prior notification about the attack.
- US-Qatar relations remain a priority for Trump.
- Hamas claims no casualties from the Israeli airstrikes.
- Future defense cooperation is being finalized.
Washington, Sep 10 (NationPress) In a recent series of airstrikes targeting Hamas’ political leadership in Doha, the capital of Qatar, US President Donald Trump sought to clarify his administration's stance, asserting that Israel acted independently. “This was a decision made by Prime Minister Netanyahu, it was not a decision made by me,” Trump stated on Truth Social.
He further noted that while Israel's unilateral action in Qatar “does not advance Israel or America’s goals,” the “elimination of Hamas, who have profited off the misery of those living in Gaza, is a worthy goal.”
Trump disclosed that his Special Envoy Steve Witkoff had communicated with the Qatari officials but lamented that it was “too late to stop the attack.”
Earlier, the White House asserted that the Trump administration had notified Qatari leadership about the imminent strikes. “President Trump immediately directed Special Envoy Witkoff to inform the Qataris of the impending attack, which he did,” said Karoline Leavitt, the White House Press Secretary, during a press briefing.
The Qatari government refuted this assertion, claiming that the communication occurred amidst the strikes. Majed Al Ansari, the spokesperson for the Qatari Foreign Ministry, declared this on X: “The statements being circulated about Qatar being informed of the attack in advance are baseless. The communication received from one of the American officials came during the sound of explosions resulting from the Israeli attack in Doha.”
On Tuesday, the Israeli military targeted the Hamas leadership headquarters in Qatar while the group was discussing a US ceasefire proposal for Gaza. Hamas reported that the Israeli strikes did not result in casualties among its senior officials.
In an effort to mend relations, Trump assured the Qatari leadership that such incidents would not recur. “I view Qatar as a strong Ally and friend of the US, and feel very badly about the location of the attack. I assured them that such a thing will not happen again on their soil. I have directed Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, to finalize the Defense Cooperation Agreement with Qatar,” Trump emphasized.
Following the strikes, the US president engaged in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatar’s Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the delicate balance of international diplomacy at play. The statements from both the US and Qatari governments highlight the challenges faced in navigating alliances amidst conflict. Our responsibility is to present unbiased reporting while considering the implications of these events on global relations.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the US response to the Israeli airstrikes?
President Trump clarified that the airstrikes were a decision made by Israel and not his administration, emphasizing a desire for diplomacy.
Did Qatar receive prior information about the strikes?
Qatari officials have disputed claims from the White House, stating that they were informed during the strikes, not in advance.
What assurance did Trump give to Qatar?
Trump assured Qatari leaders that such attacks on their soil would not happen again and directed further cooperation on defense.
