Israel Offers Official Apology to Qatar Over Deadly Strike in Doha

The White House released images showing U.S. President Donald Trump holding a phone while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a formal apology to Qatar for the killing of a Qatari national during last month’s Israeli attack targeting Hamas leaders in Doha.

The apology was conveyed during a joint call on Monday with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, held during a meeting at the White House. President Trump was present, seated with the phone on his lap as Netanyahu addressed the Qatari leadership.

Israel Expresses Regret for Civilian Casualties and Sovereignty Violations

A White House statement detailed Netanyahu’s remarks:

• He expressed deep regret that Israel’s missile strike on Hamas targets in Qatar unintentionally killed a Qatari serviceman.

• He acknowledged that the strike, conducted during hostage negotiations, violated Qatari sovereignty.

• He affirmed that Israel will not conduct similar attacks on Qatari territory in the future.

Qatar Confirms Apology and Highlights U.S. Role

Qatar’s Foreign Affairs Ministry confirmed the call, noting it was part of U.S. efforts to address the aftermath of the attack. The ministry described the strike as a “blatant violation of the sovereignty of the State of Qatar,” which targeted a residential neighborhood in Doha housing the Hamas negotiating delegation.

The ministry also expressed gratitude to the U.S. President for his role in ensuring regional peace and safeguarding Qatari sovereignty. The statement added:

“For his part, the Israeli Prime Minister apologized during the call for the attack and the violation of Qatari sovereignty, which resulted in the martyrdom of Qatari citizen Badr Al-Dosari, pledging not to repeat any targeting of Qatari territory in the future.”

Background of the Incident

Last month, Israel conducted a missile strike in Doha aimed at Hamas leadership engaged in hostage negotiations. The strike inadvertently killed Badr Al-Dosari, a Qatari national, and caused significant diplomatic tension between Israel and Qatar.

The U.S. played a central role in mediating the response, bringing both leaders together to facilitate the apology and discussions on future safeguards.

Diplomatic Implications

The apology represents a rare acknowledgment of responsibility by Israel and underscores Washington’s ongoing involvement in mediating Middle East conflicts. The incident highlights the complexities of military actions in foreign territory, particularly when civilian casualties occur.