Binyamin Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has apologised to Qatar following an Israeli strike on Doha on 9 September that killed at least one Qatari serviceman.

The apology came during a joint phone call with US President Donald Trump and Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed Al Thani from the White House, according to official statements from Washington and Doha.

Details of the Apology

The White House confirmed that Mr Netanyahu expressed “deep regret” over the incident, admitting that Israel’s missile strike, which was aimed at Hamas leadership during hostage negotiations, unintentionally killed a Qatari citizen.

“He further expressed regret that, in targeting Hamas leadership during hostage negotiations, Israel violated Qatari sovereignty and affirmed that Israel will not conduct such an attack again in the future,” the US statement said.

Background: The Strike on Doha

On 9 September, Israel launched a strike on Doha, claiming it targeted Hamas figures believed to be operating within Qatar. The attack killed a Qatari serviceman and drew widespread condemnation from the international community, including the Nigerian government.

At the time, Israel had defended its action, warning that it would repeat such operations if deemed necessary. However, the move was seen globally as a blatant breach of Qatari sovereignty.

Qatar’s Response

Following the incident, Qatar suspended its role as mediator in ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas, declaring that it would not tolerate what it called Israel’s “reckless behaviour” and disregard for regional security.

The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the phone call involving Netanyahu, Trump, and Al Thani, noting it was part of US efforts to address the repercussions of the strike that targeted a residential neighbourhood in Doha.

Why It Matters

Qatar has been a key mediator in Middle East peace efforts and hosts the largest US military base in the region. The strike strained diplomatic ties, jeopardised hostage negotiations, and risked further destabilising ongoing ceasefire discussions.

Netanyahu’s apology signals Israel’s attempt to repair relations with Qatar at a critical time when the Gulf state’s role is central to brokering peace in the Middle East.