Israel carried out a military attack on Hamas’ political leadership in Qatar on Tuesday, in what Doha and its allies condemned as a grave violation of international territorial law and sovereignty. The unprecedented assault struck as Hamas leaders met in the Qatari capital to consider a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal for Gaza.
Qatar, which has hosted mediation throughout the 23-month Gaza war, denounced the attack as “a flagrant violation of all international norms.” Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates quickly expressed “full solidarity” with Doha, further deepening the regional fallout.
Hamas Says Leaders Survived, but Members Killed
Hamas reported that its senior leaders survived the attack, though five members were killed — including the son of Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas’ Gaza chief and lead negotiator, three bodyguards, and the head of al-Hayya’s office.
Despite the casualties, Hamas accused Israel of deliberately sabotaging the ceasefire process and undermining negotiations.
Qatar Slams Israel, Questions Mediation
Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of “dragging the region to a place where it unfortunately cannot be repaired.”
When asked about the ceasefire talks, Sheikh Mohammed responded: “After the attack, I don’t think there’s anything valid in the current discussions.” He did not formally end Qatar’s mediation but signaled serious doubt about continuing.
The Qatari Interior Ministry confirmed that a member of its Internal Security Force was killed in the attack and others were injured.
U.S. Distances Itself From the Attack
The White House said Israel gave prior notice of the operation but emphasized that the U.S. was not involved. President Donald Trump described the attack as “an unfortunate incident” that damaged peace prospects.
Qatari officials dismissed Washington’s explanation, pointing out that the U.S. warning arrived only as the explosions were already shaking Doha’s diplomatic quarter.
Netanyahu Admits to International Law Violation
Breaking with Israel’s usual ambiguity on overseas operations, Netanyahu openly admitted to the attack.
“Israel initiated it, Israel conducted it, and Israel takes full responsibility,” he said, citing recent deadly attacks on Israelis in Jerusalem and Gaza as justification.
Military officials claimed they used “precise munitions,” but regional leaders argued that no justification excused a clear breach of Qatar’s territorial sovereignty.
Ceasefire Proposal at Risk
The Israeli attack in Qatar occurred as Hamas considered a U.S.-brokered ceasefire plan that included:
- Immediate release of all hostages.
- Withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza once a truce begins.
- A negotiated end to the war.
Hamas initially labeled the plan a “humiliating surrender” but agreed to review it. Now, after the attack, Hamas accused Israel of intentionally derailing negotiations.
Global Condemnation Over Violation of Sovereignty
International outrage grew quickly:
- Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman called the attack a “criminal act and a flagrant violation of international law.”
- Egypt condemned the operation as a “direct assault” on Qatar’s sovereignty.
- The U.N. Security Council scheduled an emergency meeting to address the breach.
Even in Israel, families of hostages expressed alarm, saying the move endangered any chance of bringing their loved ones home.
Regional Fallout
The Israeli attack in Qatar not only jeopardized ceasefire talks but also worsened Israel’s international isolation. Analysts warned that striking a U.S. ally’s territory risked destabilizing diplomatic agreements, including the Abraham Accords.
Despite widespread condemnation, Israel is preparing a major offensive on Gaza City, raising fears of further civilian casualties and humanitarian collapse.
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