Smoke and fire filled the skies over Doha on September 9, 2025, after a series of powerful airstrikes shook Qatar’s capital. The strikes, carried out by Israel, reportedly targeted Hamas’ top political leadership based in Doha. The sudden escalation has rattled world capitals, drawing sharp reactions from India, Qatar, the United States, and beyond.
India Calls for Diplomacy Over Escalation
India was quick to respond, voicing its unease over the strikes. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement that underlined New Delhi’s stance on the growing conflict.
“We have seen reports about the Israeli strikes in Doha earlier today. We are deeply concerned by this development and its impact on the security situation in the region,” the MEA said.
India urged all parties to exercise restraint and pursue diplomacy, emphasizing that peace and stability in West Asia should not be endangered by unilateral actions.
A Dramatic Expansion of Israel’s Campaign
Until now, Israel’s military operations had remained largely confined to the Gaza Strip. But this strike in Doha represents a major shift.
- Target: Hamas’ political leadership allegedly operating out of Doha.
- Objective: To eliminate what Israel called “terrorist chieftains” coordinating attacks.
- Response: Israel claimed full responsibility, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stating: “Israel initiated it, Israel conducted it, and Israel takes full responsibility.”
This bold move signals Israel’s willingness to extend its operations beyond Gaza — a strategy that could alter the dynamics of the entire conflict.
Qatar’s Strong Condemnation
Qatar reacted with outrage, calling the attack a blatant violation of international law.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari denounced the operation as a “cowardly Israeli attack”, adding:
“This is a flagrant violation of all international laws and norms.”
Qatar has historically played a mediator’s role in the Israel-Hamas conflict, hosting indirect negotiations between the two sides. The strike inside its capital threatens to unravel that delicate diplomatic balance.
Rare U.S. Reproach of Israel
The strikes also provoked an unusual rebuke from Washington. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt read a statement from President Donald Trump, who criticized the decision:
“Unilaterally bombing inside Qatar … does not advance Israel or America’s goals.”
Trump, while acknowledging Israel’s concerns over Hamas, stressed that Qatar remains a key U.S. ally and a critical partner in ongoing ceasefire talks.
He confirmed that U.S. envoy Witkoff had warned Qatari officials of the incoming attack but said Israel proceeded independently. Trump also spoke with both Qatari leaders and Netanyahu, urging a swift path to peace and the release of hostages in Gaza.
Global Reactions and Expert Analysis
Regional Shockwaves
The attack on Doha has reverberated across West Asia. Analysts warn it could deepen divisions and provoke retaliatory actions. Countries in the Gulf, already wary of regional instability, may reconsider their diplomatic stances.
Expert Opinions
- Dr. Ayesha Khan, West Asia analyst:
“Targeting Hamas inside Qatar is unprecedented. Israel has expanded the battlefield, and that raises serious risks for regional stability.” - Michael Green, security expert:
“This strike shows Israel’s willingness to act alone, even if it means upsetting allies like the U.S. This will complicate ceasefire negotiations.”
What This Means for India
India’s measured but firm response underscores its foreign policy principle of balancing strategic ties with both Israel and the Gulf nations.
- Energy Security: India imports a significant share of its natural gas from Qatar. Any instability there directly affects Indian energy needs.
- Diaspora Concerns: Over 800,000 Indians live in Qatar, making peace and security in the region a direct concern for New Delhi.
- Diplomatic Balancing Act: India must maintain its strong defense ties with Israel while safeguarding its economic and people-to-people ties with the Gulf.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
- Ceasefire Talks: Already stalled, negotiations could now face further setbacks.
- Regional Stability: Gulf nations may rally behind Qatar, putting pressure on Israel diplomatically.
- India’s Role: New Delhi could use its diplomatic capital to quietly advocate for restraint on both sides.
FAQs
Why did Israel strike Doha?