Netanyahu warns Israel may attack Hamas in Qatar despite Trump’s refusal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that Israel could launch further strikes against Hamas targets in Qatar, even after US President Donald Trump made it clear that such an operation “will not happen.” The Israeli leader’s remarks highlight a widening rift between Washington and Jerusalem over how to handle the militant group’s activities outside Gaza.

Netanyahu issued the warning in a televised address on Tuesday, saying Israel would not hesitate to confront what he called “terrorist safe havens,” regardless of where they are located. “Hamas cannot be allowed to find sanctuary anywhere,” he said, adding that the group poses a threat to Israel’s security.

The statement came days after reports emerged that an Israeli airstrike in Doha killed several people suspected of having links to Hamas. The incident was quickly condemned by Qatari leaders, who accused Israel of violating international law and escalating regional tensions. Qatar has since called for international accountability, with Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani describing the attack as “state terrorism”.

President Trump, speaking from the White House, addressed the issue directly earlier this week. He said that US policy does not support Israeli airstrikes on Qatari soil, and insisted, “This will not happen.” His comments marked a rare break with Netanyahu, who has traditionally enjoyed strong support in Washington. Trump stressed the need to defuse tensions in the Gulf region, noting that Qatar remains a key US ally, hosting one of the largest US military bases in the Middle East.

Despite Trump’s warning, Netanyahu doubled down on Israel’s position. He argued that no country should expect immunity if it shelters Hamas operatives. “We will defend our citizens wherever the threat arises,” he said, without confirming that Israel was planning any immediate operations.

The standoff between Trump and Netanyahu comes at a critical time, as regional leaders scramble to prevent further instability. Qatar has tried to play a mediating role in efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, while also maintaining open channels with Washington. Analysts say another Israeli attack on Qatari territory would complicate those negotiations and risk global repercussions.

Now, the disagreement underscores the competing priorities of the two close allies. As Washington presses for restraint and diplomacy, Israel continues to demonstrate that its security concerns will drive its decisions, even at the cost of directly contradicting U.S. policy.

Dnnpost