Blasts Rock Doha as Israel Confirms Strike Targeting Hamas Leadership in Qatar
Doha, Qatar - Explosions were reported in Doha, Qatar on Tuesday, followed by confirmation from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) that they conducted a “precise strike targeting the senior leadership of the Hamas terrorist organization” deemed ”directly responsible for the brutal October 7 massacre.”
The IDF stated that measures were taken to minimize civilian harm prior to the strike, including the use of precise munitions and intelligence gathering.
According to Hamas sources cited by Qatar’s Al Jazeera television, the attack targeted Hamas negotiators involved in ceasefire talks regarding Gaza. Reuters reports that two Hamas sources confirmed the survival of the group’s ceasefire negotiation delegation.
Witnesses reported several blasts and plumes of black smoke rising from Doha’s Legtifya petrol station. The station is adjacent to a residential compound protected around the clock by Qatar’s emiri guard since the start of the conflict in Gaza.
Qatar strongly condemned the attack as “cowardly” and a “flagrant violation of international law.” Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson labeled the strike “dangerous” and also a breach of international law.Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry issued a similarly strong condemnation, describing the attack as “brutal” and warning of “dire consequences” should Israel continue “its criminal violations.”
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres echoed these concerns, stating the strikes were a “flagrant violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Qatar.” He emphasized Qatar’s positive role in attempting to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas, adding, “All parties must work towards achieving a permanent ceasefire, not destroying it.”
The U.S. Embassy in Doha issued a “shelter-in-place” order for American citizens following ”reports of missile strikes occurring in Doha.” An Israeli official confirmed the United States was informed prior to the strike.israeli media, citing a senior Israeli official, reported that the targets included top Hamas leaders such as Khalil al-Hayya, the exiled Gaza chief and a key negotiator.
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin netanyahu affirmed the operation was “a wholly independent Israeli operation,” stating, “Israel initiated it, Israel conducted it, and Israel takes full responsibility.”
-Reuters
