Qatar Was Informed of the Attack, Says White House

Photo by Nahi Khabar 24/7 – via Personal Collection

The White House confirmed on Tuesday that Qatar was informed in advance about Israel’s airstrike in Doha that targeted Hamas leaders. According to officials, U.S. President Donald Trump was briefed by the military regarding the planned Israeli strike and immediately directed his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, to notify Qatari authorities.

Speaking to reporters, White House spokespersons described the strike as an “unfortunate incident,” stressing that such actions against a sovereign ally do not advance the strategic goals of either the United States or Israel, even though both governments remain committed to countering Hamas.

President Trump, sources said, felt “very badly” that the operation took place in Qatar, a close U.S. ally and a key mediator in the ongoing negotiations with Hamas. Officials emphasized that Washington remains committed to supporting Doha’s mediation role in regional peace efforts.

However, Qatari officials rejected the White House’s claim. In a statement issued by the Foreign Ministry, Doha insisted that no advance warning was received prior to the Israeli airstrikes. The statement said that Qatari authorities were contacted only when explosions had already begun, describing the event as a clear violation of Qatar’s sovereignty.

The incident has sparked widespread concern in the international community. Analysts warn that the attack could undermine delicate ceasefire talks and hostage negotiations being facilitated by Qatar. Several countries have urged restraint, highlighting the risk of escalating regional tensions.

For now, both Washington and Doha are sticking to their conflicting versions of events, with the U.S. insisting Qatar was warned, and Qatar maintaining it was left in the dark until the bombs fell.