Israel launched its first-ever strike against any of Hamas’s leadership, in Doha, the capital of Qatar, on Tuesday. A senior Israeli official confirmed the operation directly to CNN. This development is a crucial new step in the bitter and bloody conflict between Israel and Hamas. The aerial assault is particularly significant as it marks the first time Israel has carried out such military operations inside of Qatar.
This Tuesday morning, residents of Doha were greeted by the sound of multiple explosions. Just a bit later, they were alerted when smoke began billowing from the area. Where exactly the operation is being conducted remains a mystery. The attack appears to have specifically targeted individual members of Hamas leadership at the highest level. The Israeli operation was not carried out in Gaza, the territory’s…
Earlier in the week, Khalil Al-Hayya, Hamas’ chief negotiator, met with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani in Doha on Monday. This meeting would have been just before the attack. It does lead to important questions about how this event will impact diplomatic relations and ongoing negotiations in the region.
The Israeli source’s confirmation of the attack underscores the seriousness of the situation and highlights Israel’s willingness to extend its military operations beyond its borders. Analysts are eager to see the uncertainty removed. The consequences of this attack will severely undermine both regional security and the prospects of renewed diplomatic efforts.
Even the official announcement of the attack is very vague, mentioning no real specificity as to where exactly this occurred. Its effect is already being seen across the island chain. Explosions rattled buildings across Doha, causing panic among residents and concern for Qatar’s leaders. This jarring sound has done nothing but exacerbate an already charged environment.
