Doha: Israel dramatically escalated its regional campaign by launching a targeted missile strike on Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar—marking a rare and bold expansion of the conflict into the Gulf, a close U.S. ally and mediator in peace efforts.
Israeli officials staged the attack near Doha’s Legtaifiya petrol station, claiming the strike aimed at senior Hamas figures involved in ceasefire negotiations, including Khalil al-Hayya. Though Hamas reports that these leaders survived, several aides and a Qatari security officer were killed.
Qatar condemned the strike as a “cowardly” violation of international law and a blatant infringement on its sovereignty. The attack risks derailing U.S.-brokered ceasefire negotiations and severely undermines Doha’s role as a neutral mediator.
The U.S. government expressed dismay—President Trump called it “very unhappy about every aspect” of the strike, warning it does not serve American or Israeli interests. Despite being given limited prior notice, or possibly none, Washington distanced itself from the operation.
International reaction was swift and condemning. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the EU, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer denounced the attack as a dangerous escalation that threatens regional stability. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also expressed concern over its adverse impact on peace prospects.
Experts warn this strike could have deep strategic repercussions—weakening Gulf trust in Israel’s intentions, destabilizing mediation routes, and raising doubts about U.S. security assurances. It poses a critical test for the regional architecture, possibly reshaping alliances and future diplomacy.
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