Israel Targets Hamas Leadership in Qatar, US Embassy Issues Shelter-in-Place Order
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Israel has carried out a military strike targeting senior Hamas leaders in Qatar, two Israeli sources confirmed to CNN on Tuesday. The incident marks the first known Israeli strike against the militant group in the Gulf nation, escalating tensions in the Middle East.
One senior Israeli official disclosed that the attack specifically targeted Hamas’ chief negotiator, Khalil Al-Hayya, noting, “We are awaiting the results of the strike.”
Qatar Condemns “Cowardly” Attack
In a swift reaction, Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Majed Al Ansari, condemned the operation, labelling it a “cowardly” and “criminal assault” that violated international laws and norms.
“While strongly condemning this attack, the State of Qatar emphasizes that it will not tolerate this reckless and irresponsible Israeli behaviour,” Al Ansari stated on X.
A senior Hamas official also confirmed to CNN that the group’s negotiators were targeted in Doha.
US Informed Ahead of Strike
One of the Israeli sources revealed that the United States had been informed about the strike beforehand. Qatar is a close US ally in the region, hosting the Al Udeid Air Base—the largest American military facility in the Middle East—and was designated a Major Non-NATO Ally in 2022.
Following the attack, the US embassy in Qatar announced a shelter-in-place order for its facilities, warning American citizens to remain indoors amid reports of missile strikes in Doha.
Israeli Military Confirms Operation
Shortly after the incident, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released a statement confirming a “precise strike” on Hamas leadership in coordination with the Shin Bet security agency.
“For years, these members of the Hamas leadership have led the terrorist organisation’s operations, are directly responsible for the brutal October 7th massacre, and have been orchestrating the war against the State of Israel,” the statement read.
The targeted leaders reportedly met with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani just a day before the strike, further complicating diplomatic efforts in the region.
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