Israeli military struck senior Hamas officials in Doha on Tuesday, escalating its ongoing operations against the group under “Summit of Fire.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed the strike, stating Israel independently planned, initiated, and executed the operation, taking full responsibility.
Eyewitnesses in the Katara district reported multiple explosions and saw smoke rising above the northern part of Doha following the attack.
Conflicting Reports on Casualties
Initial reports suggested that all four members of the Hamas Political Bureau—the group’s main decision-making body—were either killed or went missing.
Qatari authorities later said no deaths had been confirmed, but noted that residential buildings housing bureau members suffered direct hits.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the strike, calling it “reckless Israeli behavior” and announcing investigations at the highest governmental level.
Israeli officials did not immediately disclose the specific methods used, although a military spokesperson confirmed the air force carried out the strikes.
International Reactions and Security Measures
The US Embassy in Qatar ordered shelter-in-place protocols for its facilities and advised American citizens to remain indoors for safety.
The Qatari military activated its forces in response, with officials monitoring the area and securing affected districts in Katara.
This incident marks Qatar’s second direct attack in 2024, following Iranian missile strikes on the Al Udeid base during the Israel-Iran conflict in late June.
Background on Hamas Leadership
Hamas top leaders generally reside outside Gaza. Doha has served as a base since 2017 for several high-ranking officials.
The group previously lost Ismail Haniyeh, assassinated by Israeli agents in Tehran in July 2024. Since then, Doha has become a key location for political and operational activities.
Hamas negotiators from Gaza reportedly were present during the strike, though details remain unclear. Israeli officials have not confirmed whether the attack intentionally targeted ceasefire mediators.
Observers note that the strike could further destabilize ongoing diplomatic efforts in the region, raising tensions across Gulf nations.
Authorities in Qatar are assessing structural damages and potential civilian risks, with additional updates expected as investigations progress.
The attack demonstrates Israel’s willingness to extend operations beyond its immediate borders to target Hamas leadership strategically.
Regional analysts caution that this escalation could prompt retaliatory measures from Hamas and affect ongoing international mediation attempts.
