Doha: Israel confirmed that it had launched a targeted strike on senior Hamas leaders in Doha, the capital of Qatar. The operation triggered sharp condemnation from the Gulf nation.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the joint action with the Israel Security Agency (ISA) aimed to eliminate key Hamas operatives. According to the IDF, the targeted leaders directed military operations and played a central role in the October 7 attacks.
To limit civilian casualties, Israeli forces used âprecise munitionsâ backed by âadditional intelligence.â The IDF added that it would continue acting âwith determinationâ to dismantle Hamas leadership behind the October massacre.
In response, Qatarâs foreign ministry issued a strong statement. It described the strike as a âblatant violationâ of international law and a serious threat to regional stability. Ministry spokesperson Dr Majed Al Ansari said Israeli missiles hit a residential building in Doha. He confirmed that members of Hamasâ political bureau had been staying there.
âThe State of Qatar strongly condemns this attack,â the statement said. âIt will not tolerate this reckless Israeli behaviour or any act that undermines the regionâs security and Qatarâs sovereignty.â
Qatar calls Israeli strike in Doha a violation of sovereignty
Qatari officials warned that the strike endangered civilian lives and breached the countryâs sovereignty. The foreign ministry labelled the attack as a dangerous escalation. It also pledged to take necessary steps to protect Qatarâs security.