The Motives Behind Israel’s Apology to Qatar

GATEOFWISE.COM

Israel has issued an apology to Qatar over a recent airstrike in Doha that targeted a building where Hamas leaders were holding talks aimed at ending the ongoing war.

On September 9, 2025, Israel launched the strike in Doha without consulting Qatari authorities, deploying 15 fighter jets that dropped around 10 missiles.

Hamas stated that its delegation members present at the talks were targeted but survived the attack, while six others including a Qatari security officer were killed.

The strike was condemned internationally, and Qatar warned that it would retaliate. Reports indicate that for Qatar to continue mediating between Hamas and Israel, it demanded an official apology from Israel.

On September 29, 2025, Qatar announced that U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had jointly called Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, signaling U.S. involvement in resolving the dispute over Israel’s strike in Doha.

During the call, Prime Minister Al-Thani praised President Trump for his efforts to promote peace in the region, including assurances that no further attacks would target Qatar, and expressed appreciation for Washington’s readiness to strengthen military cooperation.

In the same conversation, Prime Minister Netanyahu apologized for Israel’s strike in Doha and for violating Qatar’s sovereignty, pledging that such attacks would not be repeated.

Qatar’s Prime Minister affirmed that his country firmly and unequivocally condemns any actions that could undermine its independence and sovereignty, stressing the urgency of protecting its citizens and residents. He also welcomed the commitment to safeguard Qatar from further strikes.

This episode highlights Qatar’s determination to remain actively engaged in seeking solutions to end the Gaza war, in line with U.S. President Trump’s initiative.

The approach reflects Qatar’s longstanding policy of resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy while fulfilling its role in promoting security and stability in the region.

Reports suggest Israel’s apology is also tied to its desire to ensure Qatar’s continued role in peace talks with Hamas talks seen as essential to ending the protracted conflict that has further isolated Israel from Arab-majority nations.