Markets React to Rising Geopolitical Risks
Oil prices jumped on Wednesday after Israel launched a rare strike in Doha, killing several Hamas members and a Qatari officer.
The attack, the first on Qatari soil, immediately rattled global energy markets and raised geopolitical risk premiums.
WTI crude rose 1.37% to $63.11, while Brent climbed 1.32% to $66.89.
Analysts noted that Qatar exports little crude but plays a critical role in global natural gas supplies.
They warned the strike could unsettle Gulf energy networks and fuel volatility across global benchmarks.
Existing Supply Pressures Add to Volatility
The incident added strain to already fragile supply conditions.
OPEC+ production adjustments and U.S. shale pullbacks have limited global capacity.
Analysts said the strike introduced a new geopolitical flashpoint for traders already nervous about energy disruptions.
Strike Targets Hamas in Doha
Local authorities said the Israeli attack hit a residential neighborhood in Doha.
Five Hamas members and one Qatari security officer were killed.
The White House confirmed Israel had targeted Hamas negotiators “unfortunately located in Doha,” but distanced itself from the decision.
U.S. officials claimed President Donald Trump’s envoy tried to warn Qatar beforehand.
Qatar insists the call came only after explosions had already begun.
Qatar Denounces Attack
Qatar’s foreign ministry denied receiving prior notice.
Spokesperson Majed al-Ansari said the U.S. call came “during the sound of the explosions.”
Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani condemned the strike as “state terrorism” and a breach of sovereignty.
He said Washington’s warning arrived ten minutes after the attack began.
Trump Expresses Regret, Netanyahu Blamed
Trump later expressed regret, assuring Qatar the incident would not be repeated.
He said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu alone decided the strike.
“This was a decision made by Prime Minister Netanyahu, not by me,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
He emphasized his envoy’s warning to Qatar “came too late.”
