In a significant escalation of tensions, Israel has launched an airstrike targeting senior Hamas officials in Doha, Qatar. The strike occurred in the northern Katara district, reportedly during a meeting of the Palestinian group's negotiating team. While it remains uncertain if any members were killed, images depict extensive damage to a residential building that housed these officials.
The Israeli military accused those targeted of orchestrating the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel and promoting the ongoing conflict in Gaza. In response, Qatar has condemned the attack as a 'cowardly' act aimed at disrupting the safety of its residents and violating its sovereignty.
Qatari officials released a statement condemning the airstrike, labeling it a blatant breach of international law and expressing concern over the threat it poses to peace and security in the region. They reiterated Doha's role as a long-time host of the Hamas political bureau and mediator in negotiations between Hamas and Israel.
UN Secretary General António Guterres also condemned the strike, pointing to its violation of Qatari sovereignty.
The airstrike targeted several high-ranking members of Hamas, including Khalil al-Hayya, a notable negotiator for the group, raising the stakes in an already volatile landscape where tensions have risen dramatically since the October attack that initiated sustained conflict in Gaza.
According to reports, Israel's Defence Minister had issued stark warnings about potential consequences for Hamas leaders living abroad, delineating the ongoing Israeli military operations that have led to significant casualties in Gaza since the October attack.
This latest development signals an upward trajectory in military engagement and sparks fresh concerns regarding the humanitarian crisis and regional stability.
