When Israel carried out unprecedented airstrikes on September 9 targeting what it claimed were Hamas leaders in Doha, the shockwaves rattled not just Israel's adversaries but also its closest allies. Qatar, long seen as the Switzerland of the Middle East, built its reputation as a neutral broker and peacemaker. The tiny but wealthy Gulf state hosted the largest US military base in the region while simultaneously maintaining ties with Washington's rival, Iran.

Doha even allowed the Afghan Taliban to establish a political office, which eventually hosted the US-Taliban deal that paved the way for America's withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. More recently, Qatar was leading efforts for a ceasefire in Gaza. Ironically, the Israeli strikes hit Hamas officials who were in Doha discussing a truce proposal backed by the US President.

Israel's blatant disregard for international law and the sovereignty of other states was not surprising, but few expected Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to authorise an........

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