Israel carried out a targeted strike on senior Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed.
In a statement on X, the IDF said it had “conducted a precise strike targeting the senior leadership of the Hamas terrorist organization,” though it did not directly name Doha. However, an Israeli official confirmed the location to POLITICO.
The attack marks the first time Israel has launched a strike in Qatar, significantly escalating tensions in the Middle East. Videos circulating on social media showed smoke rising above the Qatari capital following the explosions.
Doha has long hosted Hamas officials and acted as a mediator in negotiations between Israel and Hamas aimed at ending the Gaza war and securing the release of hostages abducted on October 7, 2023.
The IDF said the strike was carried out using “precise munitions and additional intelligence” in order to minimise civilian casualties.
More as the story develops...
