On September 9, Israel launched an airstrike in Doha, the capital of Qatar, targeting senior Hamas leaders.

The strike hit a densely populated urban area and sent smoke over neighborhoods that house foreign embassies, civilians, and U.S. interests.

Qatar is a U.S. ally. It has played a key role in brokering ceasefires between Israel and Hamas, and is central to American diplomacy in the region. Striking within its borders—without international consensus—jeopardizes regional stability, escalates tensions, and undermines efforts toward peace.

President Trump has so far not condemned the attack. In fact, just days earlier, he issued a public warning to Hamas demanding acceptance of a ceasefire, while asserting that Israel had already agreed. Hours later, Israel struck Doha.

Whatever one’s view of Israel’s right to target Hamas leaders, this strike violated Qatari sovereignty, endangered civilians, and sabotaged an active mediation process—with real-world consequences for innocent people and American diplomatic standing.

We, the undersigned, call on President Donald Trump to:

• Publicly condemn the Israeli strike in Qatar as a violation of international law and diplomatic norms
• Affirm that U.S. allies cannot endanger American embassies, personnel, or peace negotiations with unilateral action
• Clarify that ceasefire negotiations must proceed without outside sabotage.
   

If President Trump seeks to lead on the world stage, he must defend not just power—but principles.