DOHA – Israel has carried out attacks in Qatar’s capital Doha as loud explosions were heard, and an unnamed Israeli official said the target was Hamas leaders meeting to consider a US ceasefire proposal on Gaza.
In a statement, the Israel Defense Force (IDF) confirmed it has carried out a strike on senior Hamas leaders in Doha. Here is full statement.
“The IDF and ISA conducted a precise strike targeting the senior leadership of the Hamas terrorist organization. For years, these members of the Hamas leadership have led the terrorist organization’s operations, are directly responsible for the brutal October 7 massacre, and have been orchestrating and managing the war against the State of Israel.
“Prior to the strike, measures were taken in order to mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions and additional intelligence.
“The IDF and ISA will continue to operate with determination in order to defeat the Hamas terrorist organization responsible for the October 7 massacre.”
Most of Hamas’s leadership in Gaza has been killed in the war that began on October 7, 2023, while the terror group’s political leadership abroad has mostly been untouched.
Qatar serves as one of the two Arab countries, along with Egypt, mediating talks between Israel and Hamas.
‘Blatant violation of international law’
A spokesperson for Qatar’s foreign ministry has condemned “in the strongest possible terms” the attack that Israel has now claimed responsibility for.
Dr Majed Al Ansari says the strike hit a residential premises “where a number of members of Hamas’ political bureau reside in the Qatari capital, Doha”.
He says the attack constitutes a “blatant violation” of international laws as well as a “serious threat” to those in Qatar.
“The State of Qatar strongly condemns this attack, and affirms that it will not tolerate this reckless Israeli behaviour and the continuous tampering with the security of the region and any action aimed at its security and sovereignty,” the statement concludes.