Israeli airstrikes targeting senior Hamas officials in Doha, Qatar, have failed to eliminate the intended targets, according to the Palestinian militant group. The attack, which hit a residential building, resulted in the deaths of six people, including a Qatari security officer.
The Israeli Ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, stated that Israel is committed to killing Hamas leaders, regardless of their location. Leiter described Hamas as “enemies of Western civilization” and emphasized that Israel’s actions are aimed at reshaping the Middle East. He acknowledged that the recent strike may have drawn criticism but expressed confidence that moderate states would ultimately understand and value Israel’s efforts.
The strike has been criticized by the White House, with US President Donald Trump stating that while dismantling Hamas is a legitimate goal, striking a US ally undermines both American and Israeli interests. Despite this, Leiter noted that Israel has “never had a better friend in the White House” and that Washington and West Jerusalem remain united in seeking the destruction of Hamas.
Qatar, which hosts Hamas officials as part of its mediation efforts, has denounced the attack as a “heinous crime” and an “act of aggression.” The Qatari Foreign Ministry has accused Israel of “state terrorism.” The emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, has also condemned the attack.
The Israeli military response to the deadly October 2023 attack launched from Gaza into southern Israel has resulted in significant casualties, with at least 64,000 deaths reported in Gaza, according to local authorities. Critics have accused Israel of committing genocide by rendering the blockaded enclave uninhabitable and exacerbating famine conditions through restrictions on food aid.
The situation remains tense, with Israel vowing to continue its pursuit of Hamas leaders. The international community is closely watching the developments, and the consequences of the recent strike are likely to have far-reaching implications for the region.
