Trump Forces Netanyahu to Apologize to Qatar Over Controversial Hamas Strike: Inside the Diplomatic Maneuver

Oct 02, 2025 02:44 am CST

A striking diplomatic moment unfolded in the Oval Office as President Trump facilitated a critical apology from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Qatar over a controversial airstrike. The carefully choreographed call, captured in an iconic black-and-white photograph, shows Trump maintaining oversight while Netanyahu reads what appears to be a scripted apology for violating Qatari sovereignty during a September 9 operation targeting Hamas officials. The incident highlights shifting power dynamics in Middle Eastern diplomacy and Trump's strategic move to reinstate Qatar as a ceasefire mediator while strengthening US-Qatar security commitments.