Israel confirms Strike in Qatar Targeting Hamas Leadership
Doha,Qatar - september 9,2025 - An Israeli operation in Qatar has resulted in the deaths of several Hamas leaders and injuries to others,sparking widespread international condemnation. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu stated the attack was a “purely Israeli operation” undertaken without the participation of the United States, and that Israel takes full responsibility. He connected the decision to strike to recent attacks: six deaths in Jerusalem and an attack in the Gaza Strip resulting in four casualties.
A US government representative confirmed Israel informed the United States in advance of the operation. The White House released a statement indicating President Trump expressed regret that Qatar was the location of the strike against Hamas. The statement emphasized Qatar’s status as a “tight ally and friend of the United States.” The British government, though, stated it had not been informed beforehand.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the attack as a “blatant violation of international law,” denying reports of advance notification. A spokesperson stated that communication from a US official occurred only after explosions were heard in Doha.
Within Israel, reactions were sharply divided. Far-right finance Minister Smotrich praised the attack, stating, “For the terrorists there will never be immunity in front of the long arm of israel – in no place in the world.” He called it a ”right decision” and a “perfect execution” by the Israeli military and the Shin Bet security service. Opposition leader Jair Lapid also congratulated the Air Force,Army,shin Bet,and all security forces “for an exceptional operation to break up our enemies.”
The attack has drawn broad international criticism, especially from the Middle East. Outrageous reactions came from Saudi Arabia and Egypt, while Jordan labeled the strike a “fainthearted aggression” that threatens regional security and stability. Turkey’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Israel of pursuing “expansionism and terrorism as state politics.”
Pope Leo described the situation as “very seriously.” UN Secretary-General Guterres condemned the strike as a violation of Qatar’s territorial integrity. German federal Foreign Minister WadePhul deemed the military strike “unacceptable,” a sentiment echoed by other European nations.
The operation has raised concerns among the families of hostages held by Hamas. A communication from the relatives forum expressed fears that the hostages could “pay the price” for Israel’s actions, citing reports from returned hostages detailing brutal retaliation. The forum urged the Israeli government to present a plan for securing the release of the remaining 48 hostages held in Gaza, 20 of whom are believed to be still alive according to Israeli intelligence.
This report was broadcast on Germany radio on September 9, 2025, as Israel continues its military campaign against Hamas, which began following the October 2023 attack on Israel and has since expanded to include military actions in Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Yemen.
