In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, Israel conducted an airstrike in Doha on Tuesday, targeting a building housing senior Hamas officials. The operation marks the first known Israeli military action in Qatar’s capital and occurred during sensitive ceasefire negotiations mediated by international parties.
Israeli authorities confirmed the strike, stating it aimed to “neutralize Hamas leadership responsible for recent attacks.” Hamas representatives reported that their negotiating team survived, but six others were killed in the blast. The group claimed discussions about a U.S.-proposed ceasefire led by former President Donald Trump were underway at the time.
The incident has drawn sharp reactions across the Middle East, with Qatar condemning the strike as a violation of its sovereignty. Analysts warn the move could complicate diplomatic efforts to de-escalate hostilities, particularly given Qatar’s role as a mediator in previous Israel-Hamas negotiations.
Regional security experts note the operation reflects Israel’s increasingly assertive counterterrorism strategy following recent violence. However, concerns persist about potential ripple effects on Gulf diplomacy and international investment flows to the region.
