JERUSALEM—Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has refused to rule out further strikes on Hamas leaders abroad, warning that they will not be granted immunity “wherever they are” in the aftermath of last week’s unprecedented attack in Qatar. Addressing a joint press conference in Jerusalem alongside US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Netanyahu asserted that every nation has the right “to defend itself beyond its borders,” framing the strike as a necessary act of national security. The Israeli operation, which targeted senior Hamas figures in Doha, sparked immediate international outrage given Qatar’s role as a close ally of the United States and a key mediator in Middle Eastern diplomacy. According to Hamas officials, six people were killed in the strike, though none of the group’s top leaders perished. The attack has intensified regional tensions and provoked a wave of condemnation, including a rare rebuke from US President Donald Trump, who labeled the move destabilizing and unnecessary. Qatar, host to one of the largest American military bases in the region, denounced the strike as a violation of its sovereignty and swiftly called for an emergency summit of Arab and regional leaders. Questions over potential US involvement surfaced quickly, but Netanyahu dismissed the speculation outright, insisting, “We did it on our own. Period.” Secretary Rubio avoided commenting directly on the strike but reiterated Washington’s longstanding commitment to Israel’s security while urging restraint to prevent a wider conflict. Analysts warn that Israel’s willingness to extend military action into the territory of US partners could complicate its diplomatic standing, deepen rifts with Qatar, and invite retaliation from Hamas or allied groups. Despite mounting criticism, Netanyahu’s remarks signal Israel’s determination to pursue a preemptive strategy against Hamas leaders abroad, underscoring a bold and controversial approach that could reshape regional dynamics.
Netanyahu Defends Qatar Strike, Warns Hamas Leaders Have No Safe Haven
