Israel's attack on Qatar's capital, Doha, has shaken Gulf allies. Trump stated it was Netanyahu's decision, not his. This incident has created a serious crisis for US-Qatar relations and the Abraham Accords.
Israeli Attack on Qatar: The attack carried out by Israel on Qatar's capital, Doha, has surprised the Gulf countries. This attack not only shook regional politics but also put the United States in a dilemma. The US has long been a strategic partner to both Qatar and Israel. In such a situation, this attack created a difficult position for President Donald Trump. The question now was whether Trump should protect relations with Qatar or support his old ally, Israel.
Trump's Balancing Act Statement
Immediately after the attack, President Trump issued a careful statement. He did not fully endorse Israel's action but avoided public criticism. Trump stated that the decision was Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's, and the US had not carried it out. He acknowledged that the incident was unfortunate but could also be an opportunity to establish peace. This statement made it clear that Trump neither wanted to anger Israel nor jeopardize relations with Qatar.
"Attack on Doha Was Not My Decision": Trump
Trump wrote on social media that the attack on Doha was Netanyahu's decision, not his. He also mentioned that the US had tried to provide potential information about the attack to Qatar, but the warning arrived late. Al Udeid Air Base, a significant US military facility where 10,000 American soldiers are stationed, is located in Qatar. Therefore, it was crucial for Trump to state that the US was not directly involved in this attack.
Qatar Denies US Warning Claim
Majid Al-Ansari, spokesperson for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, refuted the US claim regarding the warning. He stated that Qatar was informed about the attack only at the moment the bombs were being dropped. However, despite this, Qatar wishes to maintain its relations with the US. Recently, Qatar gifted Trump a Boeing 747 jet worth $400 million, which is to be converted into a "new Air Force One." Trump stated that after his term ends, this aircraft will be donated to the presidential library.
Trump Calls Qatar a Strong Ally
Amidst this entire controversy, Trump clarified that he considers Qatar a b ally of the United States. He expressed deep regret over the attack on Doha. In this way, he attempted to defuse potential tensions with Qatar. His statement also indicated that Qatar's importance to the US is significant, as the country has long played a crucial role in Middle Eastern diplomacy and mediation.
Qatar's Role and Israel's Displeasure
Before the attack, Qatar had been providing financial aid to Hamas in Gaza. By sending millions of dollars to Gaza every month, it supported Hamas's governance. Additionally, Qatar had hosted leaders of the Taliban and the Muslim Brotherhood. This is why Israel had long viewed Qatar with suspicion. Israel believes that Qatar works to strengthen Hamas, posing a threat to its security.
Trump's Message – "Elimination of Hamas is Necessary"
Trump also stated that the elimination of Hamas is a righteous goal. He made efforts to end the Gaza war and secure the release of 48 Israeli hostages, of whom approximately 20 are believed to be alive. Trump spoke with the leaders of both Israel and Qatar after the attack. He assured the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, that such an incident would not be repeated on Qatari soil in the future.
US Equations Worsened by the Attack
Analysts believe that this attack on Doha could also weaken America's position in the Gulf region. The US has always guaranteed security to its Gulf allies, but this incident has cast doubt on that guarantee. A rift in trust could emerge between Qatar and the US. Furthermore, the attack proved to be a setback for ceasefire negotiations, as Doha was at that very time a center for these talks.
Crisis for the Abraham Accords
The impact of this attack could also affect the Abraham Accords. In 2020, Israel normalized relations with four Arab countries—the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan. Now, after this attack, the future of these agreements has become uncertain. Countries like Saudi Arabia, which were considering joining this agreement, may now re-impose the demand for the establishment of a Palestinian state as a precondition. While Doha was the main center for ceasefire talks, Hamas leaders who were targeted were discussing a proposal from the Trump administration. This proposal included the release of 48 hostages.
