Israel Strikes Hamas Leadership in Qatar, Escalating Regional Tensions
Israel conducted an airstrike targeting senior Hamas leadership in Doha, Qatar, marking the first known Israeli military strike against the group in the Gulf nation. The attack, described as a “precise strike” by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet, aimed at top Hamas officials, including Khalil al-Hayya, a key negotiator and exiled Gaza chief. The strike occurred during a meeting where Hamas leaders were discussing a U.S.-proposed ceasefire for the Gaza conflict, which some Hamas sources claimed was a ruse to lure them into the attack. Multiple explosions were reported in Doha’s Katara district, with black smoke rising and damage to a residential building housing Hamas’ political bureau.
Qatar, a mediator in Israel-Hamas talks, condemned the strike as a “cowardly attack” and a “flagrant violation of international law,” emphasizing it would not tolerate such actions on its soil. The U.S. Embassy in Doha issued a shelter-in-place order for its facilities, advising citizens to do the same. It remains unclear if anyone was injured, as reports did not immediately confirm casualties. The IDF stated that measures were taken to mitigate civilian harm, using precise munitions and intelligence. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, claimed the operation was independent and held Hamas leaders responsible for the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. The strike has likely dealt a significant blow to ceasefire negotiations, escalating tensions in the region.
