Strike Hits Hamas Officials During Negotiations
Israel carried out a strike in Qatar on Tuesday aimed at Hamas leadership while they were reviewing a U.S.-backed proposal for a Gaza ceasefire. The attack took place in Doha, the Qatari capital, and immediately cast doubt on negotiations to end the conflict and secure the release of hostages.
Qatar, a key U.S. ally and host to thousands of American troops, condemned the strike as a violation of international law. The incident marked a major expansion of Israel’s campaign against Hamas, which has already endured significant losses since its October 2023 assault on Israel.
Netanyahu Claims Responsibility
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the strike was a direct response to recent deadly attacks in Jerusalem and Gaza. He publicly confirmed Israel ordered and executed the strike, adding that it was conducted with precise munitions and intelligence support.
Officials said the United States was informed beforehand, though there was no immediate comment from Washington. The U.S. Embassy in Qatar issued a shelter-in-place order following the incident.
Hostage Families and Mediators Express Alarm
The strike occurred as Hamas officials were meeting to discuss the latest U.S. ceasefire proposal. Mediators from Egypt and Qatar, who have long worked to bridge gaps between the two sides, criticized the attack as an assault on Qatar’s sovereignty and a disruption of peace efforts.
Families of Israeli hostages expressed deep concern that the strike may further jeopardize prospects for their loved ones’ return. Hamas has said remaining hostages would only be released in exchange for a lasting ceasefire, a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of Palestinian prisoners — conditions rejected by Israel.
Growing International Condemnation
The attack triggered sharp criticism across the region. Qatar called it a “reckless and cowardly” act, while Egypt labeled it a direct assault on a mediator nation. Leaders from the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia also voiced opposition, warning that the strike undermines stability and international law.
The United Nations reiterated calls for all sides to work toward a permanent ceasefire, warning that escalations risk worsening the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Ceasefire Proposal in Question
The U.S.-brokered plan under discussion calls for a ceasefire, the release of all remaining hostages, and an eventual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Hamas has so far resisted the terms, calling them unacceptable, while Israel has vowed to continue military operations until its security objectives are met.
The strike in Qatar may make further progress on the deal unlikely, at least in the near term, as tensions between negotiating parties grow.
Related Coverage
- Global News – https://idahonews.co/global-news/
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