DOHA, Sept 9 (nenagency) – On Tuesday, Israel launched an airstrike targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar, significantly expanding its military operations across the Middle East. This development marks Israel’s first military strike in the Gulf Arab state, where the Palestinian Islamist group has maintained a political base.
Regional Powers Condemn Military Action
Qatar condemned the strike as “cowardly” and a violation of international law, underscoring its role, alongside Egypt, as a mediator in the ongoing ceasefire talks concerning the war in Gaza.
- Saudi Arabia labeled the attack as “brutal Israeli aggression” against Qatar’s sovereignty.
- The United Arab Emirates described it as “blatant and cowardly.”
This response from the UAE is significant in light of its normalized relations with Israel under the 2020 Abraham Accords. Previously, the UAE had voiced strong opposition to Israeli annexation plans in the West Bank, calling them a non-negotiable red line.
Hamas Negotiators Survive Targeted Strike
Two Hamas officials, as reported by Reuters, confirmed the survival of their negotiators in the airstrike. Israeli sources indicated the strike targeted top Hamas leaders, including Khalil al-Hayya, the exiled Gaza chief and lead negotiator.
The attack came shortly after an evacuation order was issued in Gaza City, amidst ongoing Israeli efforts to neutralize Hamas military capabilities. This coincided with a claim by Hamas’ armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, of a shooting at a Jerusalem bus stop resulting in six fatalities on Monday.
Diplomatic Efforts Face Critical Setback
The assault poses a critical threat to ceasefire negotiations, which are crucially taking place in Qatar. Since the October 2023 attack on Israel, resulting in 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages, Israeli forces have eliminated several senior Hamas figures, according to Israeli reports.
Eyewitness Accounts from Doha
In Doha, witnesses reported hearing multiple explosions, with black smoke seen rising from the Legtifya petrol station following the strike. A nearby residential compound has been under surveillance by Qatar’s Emiri Guard since the Gaza conflict began, highlighting fears of potential targeting of Hamas leaders.
Emergency services swiftly responded, with ambulances and at least 15 police and unmarked government vehicles arriving on the scene within an hour.
Mass Evacuations Trigger Crisis in Gaza
The Israeli military issued extensive evacuation orders for Gaza City’s residents, causing considerable panic and confusion. Israel has announced plans to further intensify its operations.
