Israeli Airstrike on Doha Condemned Globally
An Israeli airstrike on Doha, Qatar, that targeted senior Hamas leaders has sparked international condemnation. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday around 4pm local time, resulted in six deaths, including a member of the Qatari diplomatic security service, and left several wounded.
Background and Context
Hamas leadership had gathered in Doha to discuss the latest US ceasefire proposal for Gaza. The Israeli military confirmed it had carried out the strikes, stating its intent to target Hamas' senior leadership. In a statement, the Israeli military revealed that around 12 air strikes struck residential buildings housing several members of Hamas's political bureau.
Global Reactions
Qatar's foreign ministry condemned the attack in the strongest terms, branding it a violation of international laws and norms. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also denounced the strikes, calling them a flagrant violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Qatar
. He emphasized the crucial role Qatar has been playing in achieving a ceasefire in Gaza.
Prime Minister of Qatar Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani interpreted the Israeli strikes on Doha as state terrorism
. Likewise, Turkey and Qatar are considering joint steps in response to the Israeli attack, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan condemning the assault for violating Qatar's sovereignty.
Other countries including Germany, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, as well as international bodies such as the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), criticized the Israeli aggression, stating it endangered regional peace and stability.
Implications and Consequences
The attack has complicated ongoing negotiations for a truce in Gaza. Despite the strike, a source close to the Palestinian movement confirmed that all senior leaders targeted in the attack survived. However, the assault resulted in the death of Hammam al-Hayya's son, Khalil, and his office director, Jihad Lubbad.
Hamas confirmed that six people died in Doha, including a member of the Qatari security forces, but none of its negotiators.
Conclusion and Current Status
The Israeli attack on Doha has been widely interpreted as a pivotal moment for regional relations. Qatar's Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, pledged retaliation against Israel for its strike on Hamas's political leadership based in Doha. The escalating tensions threaten the fragile peace in the region, with the international community calling for a swift resolution to the crisis.