Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has officially apologised to Qatar following an Israeli airstrike in Doha that killed a Qatari security officer and five lower-level Hamas members. The incident, which occurred on 9 September, targeted a residential compound where Hamas officials were negotiating a US ceasefire plan.
During a trilateral phone call with US President Donald Trump, Netanyahu expressed regret over the strike, acknowledged the violation of Qatari sovereignty, and promised no similar attacks would take place in the future. The White House confirmed the call, noting that the discussion was aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties and facilitating peace efforts in Gaza.
“Israel regrets the loss of a Qatari citizen in the strike and affirms it will not target Qatari territory again,” Netanyahu told Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani.
Qatar, which hosts Hamas’ political bureau and serves as a mediator alongside the US and Egypt, welcomed the apology and reiterated its commitment to continuing diplomatic efforts to end the Gaza conflict. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized Qatar’s readiness to engage in the US-led peace initiative, which includes a 20-point plan aimed at a ceasefire and long-term stability.
The airstrike initially aimed at Hamas leaders involved in the 7 October 2023 attacks on Israel, which killed over 1,200 Israelis and left 251 hostages. Israeli operations in Gaza since then have reportedly killed more than 66,000 people, according to Hamas-run health authorities.
The apology has sparked criticism in Israel, especially from far-right ministers and opposition leaders, who described it as humiliating and questioned Qatar’s role in the conflict.
Qatar remains a key diplomatic player in the region, balancing its US alliance with hosting Hamas leadership, while Israel aims to repair diplomatic ties and prevent escalation.
