Israel has launched a rare strike on Qatari soil, targeting senior Hamas officials in the capital city of Doha, a move that has triggered sharp condemnation from the Qatari government.
The Israeli military confirmed the attack, describing it as a precision operation against Hamas leadership accused of orchestrating the October 7 attacks and ongoing assaults against Israel. According to the IDF, the strike was carried out by the Air Force in coordination with Shin Bet, and “measures were taken to minimize civilian casualties.”
Reports by Al Jazeera indicate that the strike hit residential buildings where Hamas political leaders were meeting to deliberate on a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal. Sources said the group’s negotiating team was the primary target.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry denounced the assault as a “criminal act” and a grave breach of international law. Spokesperson Majed Al Ansari stated:
“This reckless attack violates all international laws and norms, endangering the security of Qataris and residents of the state. Qatar will not tolerate any threat to its sovereignty or attempts to destabilize regional security.”
The Gulf state, which has played a critical role as a mediator in truce negotiations between Israel and Hamas, also hosts the Al Udeid Air Base, the largest U.S. military installation in the Middle East.
The strike marks Israel’s first known military action inside Qatar, escalating tensions in a region already on edge from the ongoing Gaza conflict.
This development follows recent IDF claims of eliminating Mahmoud al-Aswad, head of Hamas’ General Security Apparatus for West Gaza, whom Israel described as a key intelligence figure for the group’s operations.
Global observers warn that Israel’s latest action could complicate diplomatic efforts and deepen rifts in the already fragile Middle East peace process.
