Israel struck Qatari territory on Monday, targeting members of Hamas’s political leadership as they met in the capital, Doha, for ceasefire negotiations.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed responsibility, stating the operation aimed to eliminate Hamas officials “directly responsible” for orchestrating the October 7 attacks and ongoing violence.
The strike marked the first Israeli military action on Qatari soil, a country known for its peacemaking role and home to the largest U.S. military base in the region, Al Udeid.
In response, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry vehemently condemned the attack as a flagrant breach of sovereignty and international law. Spokesman Majed Al Ansari called the bombing a “criminal attack” on residential quarters, pledging a high-level investigation and warning that such violations of Qatari security would not be tolerated.
The Israeli statement emphasised efforts to reduce civilian harm, citing precision-targeted munitions and intelligence support. However, Qatar maintains that the action threatens regional stability and undermines its diplomatic efforts.
