Early Tuesday, a rare strike rattled Doha's diplomatic quarter. Israeli jets targeted a building housing senior Hamas officials, aiming to decapitate the group's leadership. The operation unfolded amid high-stakes ceasefire talks brokered by the United States.
Impact and Reactions
Hamas sources report their leaders survived but lost aides and family members. Qatar's Interior Ministry confirmed one security officer killed and several wounded in the crowded area near schools and homes. Residents told local media they felt a deep sense of fear as sirens screamed and buildings shook.
Global outrage was swift. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the strike a flagrant violation of sovereignty. Saudi and Iranian spokespeople denounced the attack as a breach of international law. Voices from Egypt, Jordan, TĂĽrkiye and the Arab League joined the chorus, warning of heightened regional tensions.
Why Doha?
Experts see clear strategic aims around disrupting Hamas decision making, boosting Israel's leverage in any ceasefire deal and settling the score after the October 7 attack. A US official told Al Jazeera that Washington was informed ahead of the operation, underscoring Doha's tight ties with its major non NATO ally.
Qatar's Mediator Role at Risk
Qatar has been a linchpin in Israeli Palestinian talks, hosting Hamas's political bureau and shuttling between parties. Now security in the capital is under threat and diplomatic channels face strain. Qatari leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani vowed a comprehensive response to safeguard sovereignty and deter future strikes.
Analysts predict Qatar will double down on diplomacy, using legal and UN mechanisms to rally support. Yet this incident leaves a question mark over the small Gulf state's ability to remain a neutral bridge when the safety of its soil is at stake.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
