On Tuesday, the White House announced that President Donald Trump instructed his special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, to notify Qatar about an imminent Israeli attack. The Israeli military had targeted senior Hamas leaders in Doha, describing the operation as a "precise strike." Reports indicated that Khalil al-Hayya and Zaher Jabarin were the targets of the explosion that occurred in the capital of Qatar.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the Trump administration was informed by the U.S. military about Israel's attack on Hamas, which unfortunately took place in Doha. Leavitt emphasized that such an action, conducted within Qatar, a sovereign nation and a close U.S. ally working towards peace, did not align with the goals of either Israel or the United States. However, she acknowledged the elimination of Hamas, which she said had profited from the suffering of those in Gaza, as a worthwhile objective.
Leavitt further explained that President Trump immediately directed Witkoff to inform the Qataris about the impending attack, which he did. She added that the president viewed Qatar as a strong ally and friend of the United States and expressed regret over the location of the attack.
Additionally, Leavitt revealed that Trump had a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the strike. She stated that the prime minister expressed his desire for a swift peace agreement, and Trump believed the incident could present an opportunity for peace. Trump also spoke with the emir and prime minister of Qatar, thanking them for their support and friendship and assuring them that such an event would not reoccur on their soil. Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were present during the call with the Qataris.
Leavitt concluded by stating that the president has consistently prioritized peace in the Middle East, as he had sought and achieved during his first term. He expects all allies and friends in the region, including both Qatar and Israel, to pursue peace and is actively collaborating with regional allies to achieve this goal.
6 Comments
Loubianka
The Trump administration's actions are irresponsible and could have serious consequences for U.S.-Qatar relations.
KittyKat
The U.S. should not be enabling Israeli aggression under the guise of combating terrorism.
Noir Black
This is nothing but reckless diplomacy! How can the U.S. justify an attack on a sovereign nation?
Eugene Alta
Let’s not forget—Hamas profits off the suffering and destabilization of the region. This strike is justified.
Katchuka
Good on Trump for addressing the threat rather than ignoring it. Peace comes from strength.
Eugene Alta
It’s great to see the administration communicating with allies. That's how we strategize for peace!