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Israeli Airstrike in Doha targets Senior Hamas Leader During Ceasefire talks

Doha, Qatar – An Israeli airstrike in Doha today targeted a senior Hamas leader, coinciding with ongoing discussions regarding a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal for Gaza,officials confirmed. The attack,which produced visible smoke plumes across the Qatari capital,represents a significant escalation and a direct targeting of negotiations taking place on Qatari soil.

The Israeli military,in a written statement,acknowledged the “precision attack” carried out jointly with the Israeli Security Agency (ISA),stating it aimed at senior leaders of Hamas’s terrorist institution,without identifying the individual targeted. The strike occurred while a Hamas delegation was meeting to discuss the proposed ceasefire, raising concerns about the future of mediation efforts.

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Majed Al Ansari, strongly condemned the “cowardly” attack as a “blatant violation of all international laws and norms,” and a “serious threat to the security and safety of the residents of Qatar.” Ansari stated the attack took place near civilian settlements and resulted in the destruction of buildings reportedly housing members of the Hamas Political Bureau.

“This criminal attack…Qatar state stressed that it would not tolerate Israeli actions and its efforts that were constantly damaging the stability of the area, including any action targeting Qatar’s security and sovereignty,” Ansari’s statement read. Qatar has launched an investigation and promises further details as they become available.

Qatar, alongside Egypt, has been a key mediator in ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas. While Hamas maintains a representative office in Qatar, this marks a more direct targeting of Hamas officials within the country. The attack follows months of Israeli military operations in the Gaza Strip, initiated in October 2023, which have resulted in the deaths of numerous Hamas officials.

The timing of the strike, during active ceasefire discussions, raises questions about israel’s commitment to diplomatic solutions and could further complicate efforts to secure a resolution to the conflict in Gaza.