9 September 2025
Israel‘s air force attacked Qatar on Tuesday in an unprecedented strike against Hamas leaders.
Several blasts were heard in Qatar‘s capital, where Hamas negotiators have been studying Gaza ceasefire proposals. Arab countries including the UAE swiftly condemned the attack.
Majid Al Ansari, a spokesman for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the “cowardly Israeli attack” targeted residential buildings “housing several members of the political bureau of Hamas” in Doha.
“This criminal assault constitutes a blatant violation of all international laws and norms, and poses a serious threat to the security and safety of Qataris and residents in Qatar,” Mr Al Ansari added.
The Israeli army it carried out a “precise strike” targeting the senior leadership of Hamas. There was no immediate confirmation of which Hamas leaders had been targeted or whether they had been killed.
Smoke was seen rising over the Katara District in Doha. Qatar and Egypt have been acting as go-betweens in efforts to end the war in Gaza, with Hamas accepting a new ceasefire proposal last month.
“For years, these members of the Hamas leadership have led the terrorist organisation’s operations, are directly responsible for the brutal October 7th massacre, and have been orchestrating and managing the war against the state of Israel,” the Israeli army statement said.
An Israeli source said: “We don’t know yet who died, who didn’t, but apparently we have the footage, so apparently it was a successful operation.”
Qatar said the situation was secure as it confirmed the sounds heard were due to the Israeli attack. It said authorities were taking necessary measures to contain its repercussions and ensure the safety of residents and surrounding areas.
Source:thenational.com
