Breaking News: Israeli Strike in Doha SparksDiplomatic Crisis Between Qatar and Israel
Doha, Qatar – Multiple explosions shook Qatar’s capital on Tuesday, with smoke rising over the Katara district, after the Israeli military confirmed it had carried out a “precise strike” targeting senior Hamas leadership. The incident marks the first known Israeli strike on Qatari soil, a nation that has long served as a mediator between Israel and Hamas.
Details of the Strike
According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet, the operation targeted top Hamas officials allegedly responsible for orchestrating the October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel. Israeli media, citing officials, named figures such as Khalil al-Hayya and Zaher Jabarin among the intended targets. The strike reportedly took place while Hamas leaders were meeting to discuss a new ceasefire proposal.
Eyewitnesses told Reuters that several blasts were heard, followed by plumes of smoke over the residential Katara district. Al Jazeera, citing a Hamas source, reported that the group’s negotiating delegation was present at the time, though unconfirmed reports suggest they survived the attack.
Qatar’s Strong Condemnation
The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a forceful statement condemning the strike as a “cowardly Israeli attack” on residential buildings housing members of Hamas’s political bureau. Spokesperson Majed Al Ansari called it a “flagrant violation of all international laws and norms” and a direct threat to the security of Qataris and residents.
Qatar affirmed it “will not tolerate this reckless Israeli behavior” and confirmed that an investigation is underway at the highest level. The government stressed that the attack targeted a populated area, raising concerns over civilian safety.
International Reactions
The U.S. Embassy in Qatar issued a “shelter-in-place” order for American citizens in Doha following the explosions. While some Israeli media initially claimed U.S. approval for the strike, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office later stated the operation was “wholly independent.” The White House has not issued an official statement.
Ongoing Situation
Qatar Airways flights continued to operate into Doha, though at least one Qatari Air Force aircraft was seen taking off on patrol. The full impact of the strike, including potential casualties, remains under assessment.
This unprecedented escalation on Qatari territory adds a new dimension to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, with potential implications for regional diplomacy and security.
Sources: Verified reports from Al Jazeera, Reuters, CBS News, DW, and other credible outlets.
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