US President Trump has praised Qatar as a “great ally of the United States” while warning Israel to act carefully in its dealings with Doha. His remarks follow Israeli strikes on Hamas leaders in Qatar’s capital on September 9.
Speaking to reporters at Morristown Airport in New Jersey, Trump stressed that Israel must take action against Hamas but should avoid damaging its relationship with Qatar. “They have to be very, very careful. They have to do something about Hamas, but Qatar has been a great ally to the United States,” he said.
Trump also praised Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, calling him a “wonderful person.” He mentioned hosting Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, for dinner in New York shortly after the strike.
Qatar condemned the attacks, calling them a “blatant violation of sovereignty and international law.” The strikes targeted Hamas officials’ homes, killing several people, including civilians, and injuring others. Qatar urged the international community to hold Israel accountable and warned that efforts to displace Palestinians would fail.
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, reaffirmed solidarity with Qatar during an Arab-Islamic summit in Doha. Foreign ministers from the Arab League and Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) states attended the summit, signaling a united response to Israel’s actions.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the strike, likening it to the US response after the September 11 attacks. He argued that governments must not provide safe havens for militants.
Trump’s statements highlight the delicate balance between addressing security threats and maintaining diplomatic ties in the Middle East. His remarks underline the importance of careful diplomacy while countering terrorism.
The incident has sparked international debate over Israel’s actions and Qatar’s role as a regional ally of the United States, emphasizing the need for restraint and coordination among nations.
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