Unprecedented Violation of Sovereignty
Israel confirmed it launched a military attack on Hamas political leaders in Doha, marking the first direct assault on Qatari territory and a severe breach of international law. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrogantly declared, "Israel initiated it, Israel conducted it, and Israel takes full responsibility," showcasing the state’s disregard for other nations' sovereignty. The strike targeted a residential building housing Hamas’s negotiating delegation, which was actively discussing a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal at the time of the attack. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari condemned the "cowardly Israeli attack" as a "blatant violation of all international laws and norms" that endangered Qatari civilians and residents.
The Failed Assassination Attempt
Hamas confirmed that six people were killed, including five of its members and a Qatari security officer, Corporal Badr Saad Mohammed Al-Humaidi. Among the deceased were Humam Al-Hayya (son of chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya) and Jihad Labad (director of al-Hayya’s office), though senior leaders survived. Israel deployed over 10 fighter jets firing more than 10 munitions at a single target, requiring mid-air refueling for the long-range operation. The attack exposed Israel’s willingness to risk civilian lives in a sovereign nation, with Qatar’s Interior Ministry confirming explosions in residential areas.
International Condemnation
The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the strike a "flagrant violation of sovereignty and territorial integrity" and urged parties to prioritize ceasefire efforts over violence. Saudi Arabia warned of "dire consequences" for regional stability, while Turkiye accused Israel of using "terrorism as state policy". The UAE, Kuwait, Jordan, and Egypt expressed full solidarity with Qatar, condemning the attack as a "dangerous escalation". European leaders, including France’s Emmanuel Macron and the UK’s Keir Starmer, criticized the violation of Qatar’s sovereignty. Pope Leo XIV described the situation as "very serious," reflecting global alarm.
U.S. Complicity
The White House admitted prior knowledge of the attack but failed to prevent it, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stating the operation "does not advance Israel or America’s goals" while still calling Hamas elimination "a worthy goal". Qatar denied receiving timely warnings, noting U.S. officials contacted them "during the sound of explosions". This incident threatens the future of the Al-Udeid U.S. military base in Qatar and undermines Doha’s role as a mediator. Analysts warn Gulf states may reassess their security partnerships with the U.S., given its tacit approval of Israeli aggression.
Ceasefire Talks Undermined
The strike occurred as Hamas reviewed a U.S. proposal for a 60-day truce and hostage exchange, revealing Israel’s intent to sabotage diplomacy. Hamas official Basem Naim stated the group remains committed to a deal requiring "an end to the war and Israeli withdrawal," conditions Netanyahu rejects. By targeting negotiators, Israel aims to provoke retaliation and justify perpetual warfare. The attack aligns with Israel’s broader strategy to eliminate Hamas politically while ignoring Palestinian demands for self-determination.
The Resistance's Reaction
The assault follows Israel’s intensified bombardment of Gaza City, where famine conditions have killed 393 Palestinians, including 121 children. Hamas vowed continued resistance, stating Israel’s actions "will not change our demands for freedom". Hezbollah and Yemen’s Houthis warned of consequences, while Iran condemned the strike as "dangerous" and unlawful. With 64,000+ Palestinians killed in Gaza since October 2023, Israel’s escalation in Qatar signals a dangerous expansion of its war on Palestinian sovereignty.