Doha: The fallout from Israel’s airstrike in Qatar continues to ripple across the Middle East, raising fears that ongoing mediation efforts for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release have been fatally undermined.
Qatar confirmed that six people were killed in the strike on a Hamas-linked compound in Doha, including five Hamas members and one Qatari security officer. Among the dead was the son of senior Hamas figure Khalil al-Hayya, though Hamas leaders themselves reportedly survived. The attack took place while Hamas negotiators were in Qatar reviewing a United States–backed ceasefire proposal.
Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of deliberately sabotaging peace efforts. “This reckless action has destroyed any remaining hope of a hostage release,” he said, warning that Qatar’s mediation role may no longer be viable under such conditions.
The strike has drawn sharp condemnation from across the international community. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called it a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty, while Gulf states and Western governments expressed deep concern about the escalating tensions.
Qatar has summoned emergency meetings with regional partners to discuss potential diplomatic responses.
Israel defended the attack as retaliation for a recent Hamas-linked assault in Jerusalem, but analysts say the timing hitting Hamas officials during negotiations signals a new and dangerous escalation. Critics warn that the move risks isolating Israel further on the global stage and complicating its already strained relations with Arab states.
Families of hostages held in Gaza voiced alarm that the strike may derail fragile negotiations for their release. Humanitarian organizations also warned that the collapse of talks could prolong the suffering of civilians in Gaza, where conditions remain dire after months of conflict.
With Qatar questioning its role as mediator and international pressure mounting, the path to a ceasefire appears more uncertain than ever.