Washington/Doha: In a significant diplomatic development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday issued a rare apology to Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani over the recent Israeli attack in Doha. The apology came during Netanyahu’s high-profile visit to the United States, where he met U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House.
According to reports from news agency Reuters, Netanyahu called the Qatari Prime Minister from the White House itself and expressed regret for the Israeli strike, which had triggered sharp criticism from Qatar and other Gulf states. The call took place while Netanyahu was in the middle of diplomatic discussions with President Trump, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Netanyahu’s Fourth U.S. Visit Since January
Netanyahu’s current visit to the U.S. is his fourth since January 2025, underscoring the intense coordination between Washington and Tel Aviv amid growing global scrutiny over Israel’s military operations in Gaza and abroad. President Trump welcomed Netanyahu warmly, describing the meeting as “critical for regional stability.”
The attack in Doha, which reportedly struck a site suspected of being linked to Hamas logistics, led to civilian casualties and a swift backlash from the Qatari government. Qatar filed a formal protest, demanding accountability and assurances to prevent similar incidents in the future.
#Watch Washington, DC | Israel supporters gather outside the white house demanding the release of hostages from Hamas Captivity.
The meeting of us President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently underway in the white house. pic.twitter.com/htwpk3igem
– ANI (@ani) September 29, 2025
Apology Amid Diplomatic Pressure
During the phone call, Netanyahu expressed “deep regret” over the unintended consequences of the strike and assured Qatar that Israel would conduct a thorough investigation. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani reportedly accepted the apology but emphasized the need for “credible action and preventive measures.”
Diplomatic observers believe Netanyahu’s apology was not merely a goodwill gesture but also a strategic move amid intense American pressure to advance the Gaza peace framework. Qatar plays a key role in mediating between Hamas and international stakeholders, making its cooperation essential for any sustainable ceasefire.
Trump Pushes 21-Point Gaza Peace Plan
President Trump, during the White House meeting, reiterated his commitment to achieving peace in Gaza. He said he had “full faith” in the progress of the Gaza Shanti Yojana—a 21-point framework aimed at ending nearly two years of conflict and ensuring the release of hostages held by Hamas.
“We are closer than ever to a real breakthrough,” Trump said. “All sides must come together, show flexibility, and prioritize the future of the region.”
Trump reportedly urged Netanyahu to support the peace proposal more openly, underlining that Israeli cooperation is crucial to securing agreements with Arab states and other international actors.
Pro-Israel Demonstrations and Criticism Over Hamas’s Absence
While Netanyahu and Trump met inside the White House, pro-Israel demonstrators gathered outside, chanting “Seal the Deal Now!” and demanding the immediate release of hostages from Gaza.
Meanwhile, military operations in Gaza City intensified, with Israeli tanks conducting large-scale maneuvers as diplomatic negotiations continued abroad.
Arab nations have raised concerns over the peace framework, questioning the absence of Hamas representatives in the talks. Several countries, including some in Europe, have recently recognized Palestine as a state, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing diplomatic efforts.
A Delicate Diplomatic Balancing Act
Netanyahu’s apology for the attack in Doha signals a delicate balancing act: maintaining strategic relations with Washington, addressing Arab concerns, and managing domestic political pressures. His frequent U.S. visits highlight both the closeness of the Trump-Netanyahu alliance and the mounting international expectations on Israel to support meaningful peace efforts.
The Doha incident has also reinforced Qatar’s leverage as a mediator. Analysts suggest that Netanyahu’s swift outreach could pave the way for new diplomatic channels between Israel and Qatar, two countries that have historically maintained tense but pragmatic relations.
The Israeli attack in Doha has turned into more than just a military incident—it has become a diplomatic flashpoint with implications for Gaza peace efforts, U.S.-Israel relations, and regional geopolitics. Whether Netanyahu’s apology and Trump’s peace push lead to genuine progress or remain symbolic gestures will become clear in the crucial weeks ahead.
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