Trump Distances Himself from Israeli Strike on Qatar, Says It Was Planned Only by Netanyahu
- Israel’s surprise strike in Qatar has triggered diplomatic shockwaves, with US President Donald Trump swiftly distancing himself from the decision
- The raid, which killed five Hamas members, came amid sensitive ceasefire negotiations led by Washington
- As tensions rise, Trump faces mounting pressure to salvage his image as a global peacemaker
US President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, that Israel’s decision to carry out a military strike inside Qatar was made solely by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
He distanced himself from the controversial operation that has drawn sharp criticism across diplomatic circles.
Source: UGC
In a post on social media, Trump wrote:
“Unilaterally bombing inside Qatar, a Sovereign Nation and close Ally of the United States, that is working very hard and bravely taking risks with us to broker Peace, does not advance Israel or America’s goals.”
He, however, added that “eliminating Hamas, who have profited off the misery of those living in Gaza, is a worthy goal.”
The strike, which reportedly killed five Hamas members, did not target the senior team currently engaged in ceasefire negotiations with the US administration.
Trump emphasised that the raid was not authorised by him and that he had immediately contacted Qatari officials upon learning of the incident.
“I’m not thrilled about the whole situation,” Trump told reporters as he headed to dinner at a Washington, DC, steakhouse. “It’s not a good situation … we are not thrilled about the way that went down.”
Netanyahu’s decision undermines US peace efforts
The Israeli operation in Doha has been described as a diplomatic setback for Trump, who returned to the White House in January with a pledge to swiftly end the wars in Gaza and Ukraine.
Eight months into his term, both conflicts have intensified, with global leaders such as Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, and Narendra Modi openly defying Washington’s influence.
The timing of the strike has raised concerns among US officials, particularly given Qatar’s role as host to the largest American military base in the Middle East and its active involvement in ceasefire negotiations.
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CNN reported that White House officials were incensed that Netanyahu’s adviser, Ron Dermer, failed to mention the impending operation during a meeting with Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff on Monday.
Former US ambassador to Israel Edward Djerejian told CNN International’s Richard Quest:
“The attacks take place at a very sensitive moment in the ceasefire negotiations where the Trump administration, the president, and his envoy Witkoff have made clear that the president is looking for a comprehensive ceasefire, the release of all hostages, prisoner exchange and moving forward and ending the war in Gaza.”
Djerejian, who served under eight U.S. presidents, added: “Israel is not obviously paying much attention to US national security interests.”
Qatar attack: Domestic impact and global ramifications
While the fallout from the strike may not significantly affect Trump’s standing among domestic voters, many of whom remain focused on his crime crackdown and economic concerns, analysts suggest it could damage his international image as a strongman leader.
The daylight attack in Doha, a city central to U.S. diplomatic efforts, has been viewed as a direct challenge to American authority and a blow to Trump’s credibility abroad.
The incident also depicted the growing tension between U.S. strategic priorities and Israel’s unilateral actions, raising questions about coordination and trust between the two allies.
As ceasefire talks continue, the administration faces mounting pressure to reassert control over its foreign policy agenda and prevent further diplomatic missteps.
Source: Getty Images
Netanyahu’s remarks show firm stance on Hamas – Analyst
Tsvetan Krustev, an international security analyst with a focus on the Middle East, has weighed in on the latest developments surrounding Israel’s controversial airstrike in Doha, Qatar.
Speaking with Legit.ng, he said the words of Israel’s Prime Minister demonstrate the country’s firm stance on its ongoing campaign.
His observation comes as the strike has attracted global attention and sharp criticism, with debates now widening over the diplomatic and security consequences for Israel.
As he put it:
“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s statement signals that Israel remains committed to its objectives of dismantling Hamas and asserting control over Gaza, continuing its aggressive operations in the region.”
Israel bombs Qatar
Legit.ng earlier reported that Israel launched an airstrike against Hamas leaders in Qatar on Tuesday, September 9, expanding its military actions that have ranged across the Middle East to include the Gulf Arab state where the Palestinian Islamist group has long had its political base. Reuters and Sky News noted the development.
Qatar, which has acted as a mediator alongside Egypt in talks on a ceasefire in the almost two-year-old war in Gaza, condemned the attack as "cowardly" and called it a flagrant violation of international law.
Editorial assistant Ololade Olatimehin provided exclusive commentary from an international security analyst for this report.
Proofreading by James Ojo, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
