🇮🇱 Israel Strikes Hamas Leaders in Qatar, Escalating Tensions
Israel struck the Hamas political headquarters in Qatar on Tuesday. Top Hamas leaders were meeting there to consider a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal for Gaza.
This strike, launched on the territory of a U.S. ally, marked a dramatic escalation. It also threatened to derail peace talks aimed at ending the war and freeing hostages.
🇶🇦 Qatar Condemns Strike as Violation of International Norms
Qatar — a wealthy Gulf state hosting thousands of U.S. troops — condemned the attack as a “flagrant violation of international law.” Smoke was seen rising over its capital, Doha.
The strike angered other regional powers as well. Both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates expressed strong support for Qatar.
🕯️ Hamas Confirms Casualties but Says Top Leaders Survived
Hamas stated that its top leaders survived the Israeli strike. However, it confirmed the deaths of five people:
- Khalil al-Hayya’s son (al-Hayya is Hamas’ Gaza chief and top negotiator)
- Three bodyguards
- Al-Hayya’s office chief
Hamas did not offer immediate proof of the leaders’ survival. The group has, in the past, delayed confirming assassinations of its top figures.
🇺🇸 U.S. Distances Itself from Israeli Strike
American officials said Israel warned the U.S. before the attack, but Washington tried to distance itself afterward.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump saw the strike as an “unfortunate incident” that didn’t support peace. Trump also spoke directly to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to express concern.
Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff reportedly delivered a warning to Qatari officials before the strike. But Qatar’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the gesture, noting the alert arrived just as the explosions began.
🇶🇦 Qatar’s PM: “Talks May No Longer Be Valid”
Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, condemned the strike strongly. He accused Netanyahu of “dragging the region into irreparable damage.”
When asked whether ceasefire talks would continue, he responded:
“I don’t think there’s anything valid in the current talks.”
Still, he added that Qatar would continue efforts to stop the war.
👥 Civilian Casualties and Global Reactions
Qatar’s Interior Ministry confirmed that a member of its Internal Security Force died in the strike. Several others were wounded.
Hamas, despite facing heavy losses, continues to operate in Gaza. Israel’s ongoing campaign was triggered by Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack.
🛑 International Condemnation and U.N. Response
As ceasefire talks falter, Israel is preparing a major offensive on Gaza City. The move has drawn strong international condemnation, including from within Israel. Critics fear it may endanger remaining hostages.
The U.N. Security Council has scheduled an emergency meeting for Wednesday. The request came from Algeria, Pakistan, and Somalia — all current elected council members.
