Trump Criticizes Israeli Strikes in Qatar, Stresses U.S. Was Unaware

TDT | Manama

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U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday over Israel’s recent strikes in Qatar, stressing that Washington was not informed beforehand.

Trump said he played no role in the attack, which targeted Hamas positions in the Gulf state. Qatar has been a key mediator in negotiations between Israel and Hamas to end the Gaza war and secure the release of hostages held by Palestinian militants.

"I'm not thrilled about the whole situation," Trump told reporters during an outing in Washington. "We want the hostages back, but we are not thrilled about the way that went down today."

The strikes were highly sensitive because Qatar hosts a major U.S. airbase and has been actively involved in peace efforts. Earlier this year, Trump visited the country, and Qatar even gifted him a Boeing 747-8 jet for presidential use, raising ethical questions.

Trump emphasized that the decision to strike was made solely by Netanyahu. "I view Qatar as a strong ally and friend of the U.S., and feel very badly about the location of the attack," he said, while noting that targeting Hamas remained a “worthy goal.”

In a post on social media, Trump said, "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."

Trump explained that the U.S. military only notified the White House after the attack began. He directed Special Envoy Steve Witkoff to alert the Qataris, but it was too late to stop the strikes.

Afterward, Trump spoke with Netanyahu, who expressed his desire for peace. Trump suggested the incident could still serve as an opportunity to advance peace efforts.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump had sent Netanyahu a “very clear” message about his concerns, while Vice President JD Vance echoed the president’s disapproval, calling the situation unfortunate but hopeful that it could lead to progress toward peace.