Doha: Israel launched a targeted airstrike in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday aimed at senior Hamas leaders, according to Qatari officials. The operation, reportedly designed to neutralize key figures within the organization, has stirred immediate diplomatic concerns as it represents an expansion of Israeli military operations beyond its traditional regional borders. The strike caused damage near a residential area and drew swift condemnation from Qatari authorities, emphasizing the breach of national sovereignty.
The operation reportedly targeted high-ranking Hamas officials involved in negotiations and coordination with international mediators. Khalil al-Hayya, a prominent Gaza leader and negotiator, was believed to be among those intended targets. While reports suggest that some members of the leadership survived, the attack has raised concerns about potential disruptions to ongoing ceasefire and prisoner exchange discussions. This escalation underscores Israel’s strategic focus on dismantling Hamas’s operational capabilities, even on foreign soil, reflecting an increasingly assertive military posture.
The attack has prompted international criticism and calls for restraint. Qatar condemned the strikes as a violation of international law, highlighting the dangers posed to civilians and regional stability. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres denounced the action as a “flagrant violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and urged parties to avoid further escalation. Religious leaders, including Pope Leo, expressed deep concern over the incident, underscoring the potential humanitarian and geopolitical consequences of such operations.
Beyond political and diplomatic fallout, the airstrikes have triggered immediate economic reactions. Oil prices spiked, gold markets reached record highs, and global investors sought safer assets amid rising uncertainty. Analysts warned that the escalation could destabilize the already volatile Middle East region, affecting trade, energy supply chains, and regional alliances.
The Qatar strike marks a notable shift in Israel’s approach, extending military operations into territories previously considered off-limits. Experts suggest that such operations may redefine strategic calculations across the Middle East, with possible long-term implications for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and regional security frameworks. The international community continues to monitor developments closely, advocating for dialogue and de-escalation to prevent a broader conflict.