Hamas Members Killed in Israeli Air Strike in Qatar
In a tragic turn of events, Hamas has reported that five of its members were killed in an Israeli air strike in Qatar’s capital. However, the terrorist organization claimed that an attempt to assassinate its negotiating team was unsuccessful.
Failed Assassination Attempt on Hamas Negotiating Team
Hamas stated that its negotiating team was meeting in a residential compound in Doha to discuss the latest US proposal for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip when the compound was hit by a series of explosions.
Israeli Justification and Condemnation
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the strike, stating that it was aimed at senior Hamas leaders responsible for organizing the 7 October 2023 attack on Israel. Meanwhile, Qatar condemned the attack as “cowardly” and a violation of international law.
US Response and Involvement
The White House expressed regret over the incident but supported the goal of eliminating Hamas. President Donald Trump believed that targeting Hamas was necessary, despite the unfortunate consequences.
International Reactions and Condemnations
Qatar, as a key US ally in the region, was outraged by the Israeli attack on its soil. Similar sentiments were echoed across the Arab world, with Saudi Arabia denouncing the “brutal Israeli aggression”. UN Secretary General António Guterres condemned the strike as a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty.
Escalation and Concerns for Hostages
The strike raised concerns about the safety of the 48 hostages still held in Gaza, triggering anxiety among their families. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid questioned the government’s actions and their impact on the hostages.
Path to Peace and Ceasefire
Efforts towards a ceasefire and the release of hostages were disrupted by the Israeli strike. However, French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called for de-escalation and a ceasefire in Gaza.
Previous Attacks and Ongoing Conflict
Israel has targeted top Hamas leaders in the past, including the group’s exiled political leader Ismail Haniyeh and mastermind of the 7 October attack Yahya Sinwar. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in thousands of casualties over the years.
