Trump Warns Israel: “Be Very Careful” After Strikes on Qatar, US Ally

In a rare rebuke, former President Donald Trump publicly cautioned Israel to proceed with heightened caution following its airstrike in Doha, Qatar, emphasizing that Qatar remains a critical ally of the United States. The strike, which targeted Hamas operatives within Qatari territory, has triggered widespread diplomatic concern and raised serious questions about regional stability.

According to Trump, while combating terrorism—particularly Hamas—is a legitimate and important objective, any military action must be weighed carefully against geopolitical fallout. He argued that striking inside Qatar undermines both Israeli and American aims. At the same time, Trump affirmed that Qatar continues to serve a vital diplomatic and strategic role, including facilitating peace negotiations related to the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Trump’s remarks come on the heels of an Israeli strike that killed several individuals, including a Qatari security officer. The operation reportedly targeted Hamas leaders alleged to be using Qatari soil for operations and coordination. Qatar has strongly condemned the attack, calling it a violation of sovereignty and accusing Israel of escalating tensions in the region.

In response, the United States, under Trump’s direction, joined many international voices calling the strike counterproductive. Trump stated that he was “very unhappy” about the timing and location of the operation and said that such an incident should not recur. He emphasized that the decision was made by Israeli leadership without adequate coordination with U.S. officials.

Diplomatic reactions from Gulf and Arab nations were swift. Qatar, which has long positioned itself as a mediator between conflicting parties, insisted the attack threatens its ability to foster peace accords and hostage negotiations. Other regional states voiced solidarity with Doha, warning that continued unilateral military moves risk undermining existing frameworks for dialogue.

Trump additionally urged Israel to balance its security goals—such as neutralizing Hamas—with respect for international norms and diplomacy. He called on all involved parties to avoid actions that might derail talks toward ceasefire and hostage release. The former president also conveyed to Qatari leaders that the U.S. deeply regrets the strike’s adverse effects on bilateral relations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, meanwhile, defended the operation as necessary, arguing that any nation hosting terrorists must be held accountable. He issued warnings to countries the Israeli government believes harbour militants, demanding expulsion or legal action.

While U.S.-Israel relations remain strong in many respects, Trump’s sharp words signal growing pressure for restraint. As Qatar hosts a major U.S. military base and continues to serve as a hub for diplomatic negotiation, any fissures with Doha could complicate broader U.S. policy in the Middle East.

The Doha strike comes amidst nearly two years of conflict between Israel and Hamas, during which hostilities, humanitarian concerns, and international diplomacy have each grown increasingly complicated. Many observers believe that how Israel, the U.S., and Qatar move forward could define regional peace trajectories over the coming months.