Israeli forces struck senior Hamas officials in Doha on Tuesday, escalating their campaign in an operation called Summit of Fire.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple explosions in the Katara district and seeing plumes of smoke rising above residential areas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office declared full responsibility, stating, “Israel initiated it, Israel conducted it, and Israel takes full responsibility.”
Officials confirmed the strike targeted Hamas leaders directly involved in ceasefire negotiations, though casualties remain unverified. Unconfirmed reports suggest all four members of Hamas’ Political Bureau were either killed or remain missing.
Qatari Response and International Reactions
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry confirmed residential buildings housing Hamas officials were hit, calling the strike “reckless Israeli behaviour.”
The ministry condemned the attack, launched a top-level investigation, and pledged to release details once verified. Officials emphasized that the strike marked a breach of Qatar’s sovereignty and endangered civilians in densely populated areas.
The Qatari military activated emergency procedures, while the US Embassy in Doha ordered staff and citizens to shelter in place.
This attack represents the second strike on Qatari soil this year. In June, Iranian missiles targeted Al Udeid airbase during the Israel-Iran conflict, raising concerns about further instability in the Gulf.
Wider Context of Hamas Leadership Abroad
Hamas’ senior leaders have long operated outside Gaza. Ismail Haniyeh, assassinated in Tehran in July 2024, resided mainly in Qatar after leaving Gaza in 2017.
Qatar has hosted several Hamas officials for years, providing them political and logistical space despite international criticism.
Tuesday’s strike underscores Israel’s intent to extend its reach beyond Gaza, targeting Hamas’ global leadership networks and disrupting negotiations abroad.
Regional analysts warn that this attack could derail ongoing ceasefire talks, destabilize diplomatic channels, and escalate tensions across the Middle East.
The outcome remains uncertain as both Qatar and Israel brace for the political and security fallout of this unprecedented strike.
