The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has carried out several airstrikes against high-ranking Hamas targets in the Qatari capital, Doha. Loud explosions were heard in several locations, and videos of large plumes of smoke billowing over the city have surfaced on social media. The US has confirmed it was aware of the attacks. Hamas claims the targeted leaders survived.
Israel confirms the attack on X and says several senior Hamas members were targeted, including Hamas Political Bureau chairman Khalil al-Hayya. His son was killed in one of the bombings, along with four other Hamas members. Qatar also says a member of its security forces was killed and several wounded. Hamas says Israel failed to kill the leading members of its negotiating team.
The exact number of bombings Israel carried out remains unclear. The attack took place in a residential area, so it's possible that civilian casualties were also incurred.
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Israel carries out airstrikes on the Qatari capital Doha
Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich praised the "wise decision and perfect execution" of the Israeli army and the Shin Bet security service on X."Terrorists will never escape the long arm of Israel, wherever they are." Smotrich is one of the most radical ministers in Netanyahu's government and has since been banned from several countries, including Belgium.
US informed of attack, White House calls it 'unfortunate incident'
The US was informed of the attack in advance, according to White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt. Special envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff reportedly warned Qatar about the attack. The White House calls it an"unfortunate incident that serves neither American nor Israeli interests in the region." Trump called Netanyahu on the phone before the attack. The White House emphasizes that Israel acted alone.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyau confirms that the army acted"independently." He says he ordered the strikes around noon, in response to yesterday's Hamas attack in Jerusalem. His Defense Minister, Katz, calls the operation"fully justified."
Netanyahu also says the attack could end the war in Gaza, provided Hamas accepts the US proposal. This would involve Hamas releasing all hostages and surrendering completely. Trump also reiterates that this could be an"opportunity for peace."
Qatar calls it a "cowardly Israeli attack"
The Qatari government is calling it a "cowardly Israeli attack" and a "flagrant violation of international law." "This is being investigated at the highest level." Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman al-Saud told the Qatari state news agency that he would "use all means to support Qatar" and called the attack "a criminal act by Israel."
The international community also condemned the attack. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called the bombing"a gross violation of Qatar's sovereignty and territorial integrity." He emphasized that Qatar plays a key role in the ceasefire negotiations in Gaza."All parties must work together to achieve a lasting ceasefire, not to destroy it," he said.
Egyptian President al-Sisi called the attacks a"dangerous precedent" and said they "undermine global efforts to de-escalate the conflict in the region." The Turkish Foreign Ministry said: "The terrorist state of Israel is demonstrating its desire to expand its territory." Pope Leo XIV also expressed his concern, calling the situation"very serious."
French President Emmanuel Macron called the attack "unacceptable, whatever the motive." British Prime Minister Starmer also condemned the attack in a post on X.
