Trump Condemns Israeli Strike in Qatar but Reaffirms Goal to Eliminate Hamas

President Donald Trump issued a measured but critical response to Israel’s airstrike inside Doha, Qatar, aimed at top Hamas leadership, warning that such unilateral actions could endanger diplomatic progress and strain vital alliances while reaffirming that “taking out Hamas is a worthy goal.”

The strike reportedly killed Khalil al-Hayya, a top Hamas negotiator and deputy to Gaza terror chief Yahya Sinwar, along with Zaher Jabarin, a senior commander in Hamas’s military wing. Israeli officials described the bombing as a “precise strike” on terrorist operatives linked to the October 7 massacre that left over 1,200 Israelis dead.

But the location of the strike Doha, the capital of one of America’s closest Middle Eastern allies triggered sharp criticism from President Trump, who has strengthened U.S.-Qatar ties during his second term.

“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,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, reading from Trump’s official statement.

According to Leavitt, the U.S. military notified the administration of the strike in advance, prompting Trump to immediately direct special envoy Steve Witkoff to inform Qatar’s leadership. Trump later spoke directly with both Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and the Emir of Qatar, expressing his concerns and reaffirming that such incidents should not be repeated.

“The president views Qatar as a strong ally and friend of the United States and feels very badly about the location of this attack,” Leavitt added.

“President Trump believes this unfortunate incident could serve as an opportunity for peace.”

Key takeaways:

• Trump condemned Israel’s strike inside a sovereign allied nation, warning it jeopardizes key diplomatic efforts.

• He praised the goal of eliminating Hamas, but urged it be done in ways that preserve strategic alliances.

• The U.S. military base at Al Udeid in Qatar, the largest in the region, makes diplomatic stability with Doha essential to U.S. operations.

• Trump reaffirmed his strong relationship with Qatar, having signed a major economic deal during a state visit earlier this year.

This is a clear example of Trump’s foreign policy strength one rooted in protecting American interests, supporting allies, and rejecting reckless escalation.

Unlike Biden’s erratic and apologetic foreign policy, Trump’s approach combines firmness against terrorism with pragmatism toward international partners. He understands that beating Hamas is necessary but not at the cost of blowing up vital alliances.

Qatar has been playing a double game for years, hosting Hamas leadership while posing as a peace broker. Trump calling out Israel’s action doesn’t mean he’s siding with Qatar it means he’s focused on keeping America’s interests first and maintaining order in an already volatile region.

Israel did what it believed was necessary but Trump is making sure the U.S. isn’t caught in the diplomatic fallout.

This is what real leadership looks like. Strength with strategy. Justice with foresight.

Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter to keep up with global headlines that actually matter.