US Response to Israeli Strike in Qatar Ruins Trump’s Credibility

After India, the United States is set to lose its strategic partnership with the powerful countries in the Gulf region in the wake of Israeli aggression against Qatar. The Israeli attack targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar has sparked familiar headlines in the United States about presidential frustration with Israel. For two years, both Joe Biden and Donald Trump have publicly expressed dissatisfaction with Israeli actions while continuing large-scale aid. Washington has provided billions of dollars to fund Israel’s war in Gaza, despite repeated disagreements.

A Strike on a US Partner

This attack, however, marked a major escalation. Qatar is a close US partner and hosts one of Washington’s largest Middle East military bases. The strike, therefore, directly challenged American credibility and regional influence. Yet, Trump’s response was muted. On social media, he said he felt “very badly” about the location. Later, he told reporters he was “not thrilled.”

Contradictory White House Messaging

The White House waited several hours before addressing the assassination attempt. Its statement stopped short of condemning Israel. “Unilaterally bombing inside Qatar, a sovereign nation and close ally, does not advance Israel or America’s goals,” spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said. “However, eliminating Hamas…is a worthy goal.”

Experts noted contradictions. “The response was contradictory, lacked diplomacy, and lacked substance,” said Khalil Jahshan of the Arab Center Washington DC. “It is not befitting a superpower.”

Promises and Threats

Trump later reassured Qatar’s emir that such an incident would not happen again. But within 24 hours, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his envoy in Washington appeared to threaten further action against Qatar.

Meanwhile, the State Department remained silent as of Wednesday afternoon. Its failure to comment is notable given Qatar’s designation as a major non-NATO US ally.

Red Lines Crossed

Initially, the White House claimed the US had informed Qatar before the strike. Doha swiftly denied this version. Trump later admitted that by the time his envoy Steve Witkoff spoke to Qatari officials, it was “too late.”

Regional Credibility at Risk

Analysts argue that Washington’s mixed signals weaken US standing in the Gulf. They warn that muted responses and contradictions only embolden Israel and alienate regional partners. The fallout, they say, could test the durability of America’s alliances in the Middle East.