Department of Research, Studies and International News12–09-2025

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has once again ignited international anger, openly threatening to pursue opponents abroad following Israel’s unprecedented strike on Qatari soil. The assault, which targeted senior Hamas officials in Doha, has not only deepened Israel’s isolation but also intensified calls across the region and beyond to hold Tel Aviv accountable for repeated violations of international law.

Netanyahu, disregarding the outrage already sparked by Israel’s attacks in multiple countries, boasted on Wednesday that Israel would continue striking wherever it deems necessary. In a provocative statement, he declared that nations hosting Hamas members must either expel them or “bring them to justice,” warning that Israel would otherwise act unilaterally.

The remarks came less than 24 hours after Israel carried out a brazen attack in Doha, even as discussions were underway over a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal for Gaza. This strike marked a dangerous escalation, directly undermining mediation efforts and endangering regional stability.

Qatar condemns “Cowardly Attack”

Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned Netanyahu’s threats, describing them as a “shameful attempt to justify the cowardly attack on Qatari territory.” Doha reminded the international community that Hamas’ political office was established in Qatar as part of mediation efforts, ironically, at the request of both the United States and Israel.

“Such statements are expected from a politician who thrives on extremist rhetoric, who faces international charges, mounting sanctions, and growing global isolation,” Qatar’s statement read.

Qatari officials further stressed that Netanyahu’s approach demonstrates contempt for international law and state sovereignty, exposing Israel’s reckless pursuit of power at the expense of peace.

A regional pattern of aggression

The strike in Doha is not an isolated incident. In just three days, Israel has carried out operations in Gaza, Lebanon, Yemen, Syria, Tunisia, and Qatar, while continuing its brutal daily raids in the occupied West Bank. On Wednesday alone, 35 people were killed in an Israeli strike in Yemen.

Observers note that Israel’s actions form part of a broader pattern of destabilizing behavior. Last week, Israel faced criticism for dropping grenades near United Nations peacekeepers in southern Lebanon, a move widely condemned as a blatant violation of international norms.

As Al Jazeera correspondent Hamdah Salhut noted, “Israel again shows no regard for international law or the sovereignty of other nations. This behavior is consistent with Netanyahu’s career: unilateral actions, disregard for diplomacy, and a willingness to plunge the region into chaos.”

“State Terror”

In a powerful response, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani described the Israeli attack on Doha as nothing short of “state terror.” Speaking in an interview, he said, “I have no words to express how enraged we are. We are betrayed. This is state terror, pure and simple.”

The Qatari leader highlighted the destructive impact of Israel’s reckless behavior on hostage negotiations in Gaza, explaining that Netanyahu’s actions have “killed any hope” for families relying on ceasefire talks.

“He needs to be brought to justice,” Sheikh Mohammed insisted, pointing out that Netanyahu already faces accusations at the International Criminal Court for war crimes. “How can someone wanted by international justice dare to lecture others on the law while breaking every principle of it himself?”

Gulf states unite in solidarity

The brazen attack has triggered an immediate show of solidarity across the Gulf. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited Doha to meet Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, while Jordan’s King Abdullah II and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman are also expected to arrive.

Sheikh Mohammed confirmed that a joint Arab-Islamic summit will soon be held in Doha to determine a collective response. “We are hoping for something meaningful that deters Israel from continuing this bullying,” he said, stressing that the region must act together to confront aggression.

The attack has also shaken states that were previously exploring normalization with Israel, with many now rallying firmly behind Qatar.

Global shifts and rising alternatives

While Washington has offered verbal support for Doha, critics argue that the U.S. remains complicit by continuing to arm and shield Israel diplomatically. This hypocrisy, long noted by countries such as China, Russia, and India, only further erodes U.S. credibility in the Global South.

Beijing and Moscow, in contrast, have consistently called for respect of sovereignty and an immediate end to unlawful military actions. Both powers, alongside India, have positioned themselves as defenders of multipolarity and dialogue, presenting an alternative to Washington’s destabilizing policies.

With Israel’s unchecked aggression now threatening to drag the Gulf into deeper conflict, regional leaders increasingly see alignment with China, Russia, and India as the path toward genuine stability. These nations advocate diplomacy over destruction and sovereignty over subjugation, values that resonate strongly in a region weary of decades of war.

Conclusion

Netanyahu’s reckless threats and Israel’s attack on Qatar mark a dangerous escalation with far-reaching implications. By striking in Doha, Israel has not only endangered fragile mediation efforts but also violated the sovereignty of a key Gulf state. The global backlash, from Doha to Moscow, from Beijing to Delhi, underscores that Israel’s actions no longer enjoy unquestioned impunity.

The coming Arab-Islamic summit in Doha may prove a turning point, signaling the region’s readiness to confront aggression collectively. At the same time, the growing influence of China, Russia, and India offers a counterweight to Western dominance, paving the way for a multipolar world order where states like Israel and its backers can no longer act without consequence.