Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not ruled out further strikes on Hamas leaders following last week's attack in Qatar, stating they would not have immunity wherever they are.
Speaking at a Jerusalem press conference with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Netanyahu asserted that every country has the right to defend itself beyond its borders.
Israel's decision to target Hamas leaders in Qatar, its close ally, sparked international outrage and drew criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump. Hamas reported six fatalities but claimed its leaders survived.
Netanyahu's comments arrived shortly after the White House assured Qatar through Trump that such actions would not be repeated on their soil.
When asked if the U.S. was involved in the strike, Netanyahu responded firmly: We did it on our own. Period. Rubio commented that the U.S. maintains strong relationships with our Gulf allies despite the tensions.
The meeting happens alongside Arab leaders convening a summit to support Qatar, with its Prime Minister urging for an end to double standards and accountability for Israel.
Qatar plays a significant role in U.S. interests, hosting a major airbase and mediating negotiations between Hamas and Israel.
As Netanyahu and Rubio presented a united front amid visible tensions, Israel's military continued demolishing residential buildings in Gaza City, preparing for more substantial operations.
In the meantime, approximately 250,000 Palestinians have fled surrounding areas as Israel carries out airstrikes amid warnings of a deteriorating humanitarian situation.
With the UN General Assembly session approaching, discussions on the future of the West Bank intensify, raising concerns over the potential recognition of Palestine by several countries.
