NewKerala.com

Key Points

Israel launched an unprecedented airstrike in Qatar's capital targeting senior Hamas officials. Prime Minister Netanyahu claimed full responsibility for what he called an independent Israeli operation. The strike targeted leaders directly responsible for the October 7 massacre using precise intelligence. Qatar immediately condemned the attack as a serious violation of its sovereignty and launched an investigation.

Key Points: Israel Airstrike Targets Hamas Leaders in Doha Qatar

  • Israel targeted Hamas leaders directly responsible for October 7 massacre
  • Used precise munitions and intelligence to limit civilian casualties
  • Netanyahu claims full responsibility for independent Israeli operation
  • Qatar condemns strike as serious violation of its sovereignty
2 min read

Israel says airstrikes in Doha targetted Hamas leaders

Israel confirms unprecedented airstrike in Doha targeting Hamas leaders responsible for October 7. Netanyahu claims full responsibility as Qatar condemns sovereignty violation.

"a wholly independent Israeli operation. Israel initiated it, Israel conducted it, and Israel takes full responsibility - Benjamin Netanyahu"

Jerusalem/Doha, Sep 9

Israel launched an unprecedented airstrike in the Qatari capital of Doha on Tuesday, targetting a building used by senior Hamas officials in what Israeli authorities described as an attempt to assassinate leaders of the group.

In a joint statement, the military and the Shin Bet security agency confirmed responsibility, saying the strike targeted Hamas leaders "directly responsible for the October 7 massacre" and used "precise munitions and intelligence" to limit civilian harm.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it "a wholly independent Israeli operation." "Israel initiated it, Israel conducted it, and Israel takes full responsibility," he said in a statement released by his office, Xinhua News Agency reported.

Eyewitnesses heard loud explosions and saw a large plume of smoke rising over the Qatari capital; no initial casualties were reported.

Israeli officials believe key Hamas figures were in the building during the strike. An unnamed senior official told Israel's Kan TV that there were "strong indications" that Khalil al-Hayya, a deputy leader in Hamas's political bureau, and Zaher Jabarin, another senior official, were present. However, Israeli agencies were still assessing the outcome and did not officially confirm who, if anyone, was hit.

Contradicting Israel's claims, a Hamas source told Al Jazeera that no members of the group were killed in the attack. The source stated the officials had been meeting to discuss a ceasefire proposal.

The attack drew swift condemnation from Qatar, a key mediator in the conflict that hosts Hamas's political bureau. The Qatari Foreign Ministry called the strike a "serious threat to the security of Qatari citizens and residents" and a violation of its sovereignty, announcing that an investigation was underway.

Hussein al-Sheikh, a senior Palestinian official, echoed the sentiment, calling the assault a "serious violation of international law."

The strike is believed to be the first of its kind carried out by Israel in Qatar. The attack also came as Hamas's armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, claimed responsibility for a shooting in Jerusalem a day earlier that killed at least six people. The group described that attack as a response to Israel's ongoing actions.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As an Indian, I understand Israel's need to protect its citizens after October 7, but attacking in a neutral country like Qatar? This could backfire and make peace negotiations even more difficult. The cycle of violence needs to stop somewhere.
A
Aryan P
Israel has every right to go after terrorists wherever they are hiding. If Pakistan hosted terrorists attacking India, we would expect our government to take similar action. National security comes first! 🇮🇳
S
Sarah B
The timing is suspicious - right when ceasefire talks were happening. If Hamas officials were actually discussing peace, this attack undermines any progress. Both sides need to show restraint for the sake of innocent civilians.
V
Vikram M
Qatar has been trying to mediate peace, and this is how they're repaid? This shows complete disregard for diplomatic efforts. India should urge both sides to return to negotiation table rather than escalating violence.
M
Michael C
The conflicting reports are concerning. Israel says they targeted Hamas leaders, Hamas says no one was killed. We need independent verification before drawing conclusions. Media should be careful not to spread unconfirmed claims.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50