DOHA, Qatar (Chatnewstv.com) — Israel said Tuesday it carried out an airstrike targeting Hamas’ leadership, hours after an explosion sent black smoke billowing over Qatar’s capital, Doha.
An Israeli official, speaking to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity, said the strike targeted Hamas’ political headquarters in Doha. The official was not authorized to speak publicly beyond the military’s statement.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry denounced the strike as a “cowardly Israeli attack” and a “flagrant violation of all international laws and norms.” Spokesman Majed Al Ansari said in a statement that Israel had “crossed a dangerous line” by striking the Gulf state.
Al Jazeera, Qatar’s state-funded broadcaster, linked the blast in Doha to Israel’s announcement. It was not immediately clear if there were casualties.
Hamas’ exiled leadership has long been based in Qatar, which has played a central role in mediating talks between the militant group and Israel, including negotiations over a Gaza ceasefire and the release of hostages taken in Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023 attack.
A strike on Hamas’ senior figures in Doha could further complicate those negotiations and deepen tensions between Israel and Qatar, a key U.S. ally in the region.
“This reckless aggression threatens Qatar’s sovereignty and undermines regional stability,” Al Ansari said.
UPDATE: Hamas has released a statement saying no one was killed in the attack.
