Israel’s military launched airstrikes on Tuesday targeting senior Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar. The strikes, which have drawn international attention, targeted residences housing members of Hamas’s political bureau.
Qatar, a key mediator in ceasefire efforts between Israel and Hamas, condemned the assault, describing it as an attack on civilian buildings.
The Israeli operation, named “Summit of Fire,” aimed at Hamas leaders accused of orchestrating the October 7, 2023 massacre and managing the ongoing conflict with Israel.
The airstrikes hit homes in the Qatari capital, where several members of the militant group’s leadership reside. While Hamas officials in Gaza confirmed the strike, the extent of casualties remains unclear, report agencies.
Israel’s military justified the operation, stating the targeted leaders are responsible for ongoing attacks against Israel. “For years, these individuals have directed operations and instigated the war against the State of Israel,” an Israeli military spokesperson said.
The strike marks the first Israeli attack on Qatar, which, alongside the US and Egypt, has played a pivotal role in mediating peace talks. These discussions, however, have failed to bring a permanent resolution to the conflict despite two temporary truces.
Qatar’s foreign ministry strongly condemned the attack, calling it a “cowardly” assault on its sovereignty. “This is an unacceptable violation of Qatar’s sovereignty,” said spokesperson Majed al-Ansari on social media.
The assault on Doha follows statements made by Israel’s armed forces chief, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, who pledged to target Hamas leaders abroad. Israel had warned that its operations would extend beyond Gaza.
The US Embassy in Doha advised American citizens to shelter in place, urging them to monitor official channels for updates. Meanwhile, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack, calling it a “flagrant violation” of Qatari sovereignty.
Iran, a staunch supporter of Hamas, condemned the strikes, calling them a violation of international law and Qatar’s territorial integrity. The attack was also denounced by neighboring countries, including Jordan and the UAE, which expressed solidarity with Qatar.
This escalation comes as Israel continues its airstrikes on Gaza City, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urging residents to evacuate the area. The conflict, which began after Hamas’s unprecedented attack in October 2023, shows no sign of abating despite repeated ceasefire attempts.
