Doha, Qatar — Israel carried out an airstrike in Doha targeting senior Hamas figures, a dramatic escalation that risks derailing fragile ceasefire efforts for Gaza and jolting regional stability. Initial assessments indicate Hamas’s top leadership, including senior official Khalil al-Hayya, survived the strike, though multiple fatalities were reported and Qatar condemned the attack as a breach of sovereignty and international law.
Officials and eyewitnesses reported explosions in the Qatari capital’s diplomatic area on Sept. 9, with emergency crews rushing to the scene. Hamas said several lower-ranking members were killed; authorities in Doha confirmed casualties and infrastructure damage. The United Nations and a broad range of governments criticized the strike, warning it could upend hostage negotiations and ceasefire talks that Qatar has been mediating.
Western capitals reacted swiftly. The United Kingdom denounced the attack as a violation of Qatari sovereignty, while Washington said it had prior notice but emphasized the operation was unilateral and not U.S.-assisted. Analysts cautioned the move could deepen regional tension, complicate diplomacy, and invite retaliatory actions by allied groups.
Qatar vowed to continue its mediation role but “reserves the right to respond,” as pressure mounts to prevent further escalation. Israel framed the operation as a “precise” strike on Hamas leadership believed to be directing attacks, including recent incidents outside Jerusalem. Meanwhile, humanitarian agencies warned of spillover risks to civilians and infrastructure if the confrontation widens.
