Israeli Airstrike Targets Hamas Leadership in Qatari Capital
Israeli forces conducted a targeted airstrike against senior Hamas officials in Doha, Qatar on Tuesday, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. Multiple explosions were reported throughout the Qatari capital as the Israeli Air Force struck what they described as "key Hamas leadership targets."
High-Profile Target
Israeli media identified Khalil al-Hayya, a prominent Hamas leader and member of the organization's temporary ruling committee, as the primary target of the operation. Al-Hayya has been a central figure in Hamas leadership since the formation of the temporary committee following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in July 2024.
"The members of the Hamas leadership who were attacked today have been directing the terrorist organization's activities for years and are directly responsible for the October 7 massacre and waging war against the state of Israel," the Israeli Defense Forces stated in an official declaration.
Qatar's Strong Condemnation
Qatar immediately condemned what it called a "cowardly attack" and accused Israel of violating international law. The Gulf nation has served as a key mediator in ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas throughout the conflict.
According to Reuters, an Israeli official claimed that Qatar had been notified in advance of the operation, and that U.S. President Trump had given his approval for the strike. Hamas leadership has maintained a presence in Doha for years, using the city as a base for diplomatic activities and negotiations.
Ceasefire Talks Disrupted
The timing of the attack is particularly significant as Hamas leadership was reportedly meeting to discuss an American proposal for a ceasefire when the strike occurred. Qatar-based Al Jazeera reported that the meeting was focused on evaluating the latest peace initiative put forward by U.S. mediators.
Verified footage from Doha showed smoke plumes rising over the city following the explosions. The exact locations of the strikes and the extent of damage remain unclear, as do potential casualties from the operation.
This development comes amid ongoing tensions in the region and represents a dramatic expansion of Israeli military operations beyond traditional conflict zones. The strike on foreign soil marks a significant departure from previous engagement patterns and could have substantial diplomatic repercussions.