Qatar Says Israel Strike Kills Hope for Gaza Hostage Release

Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani condemned Israel's recent airstrikes on Hamas leaders in Doha, stating that the attacks have "killed any hope" for securing a ceasefire and the release of hostages held in Gaza. Al Thani revealed he had met with families of hostages on the morning of the attack, emphasizing that they were relying solely on Qatar's mediation efforts. The strikes, which killed six people including a Qatari security officer, targeted Hamas' negotiating team as they were discussing a U.S. ceasefire proposal, undermining months of diplomatic efforts led by Qatar and Egypt. The UN Security Council condemned the attack, with many Arab states and regional leaders expressing strong solidarity with Qatar and denouncing Israel's actions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the strikes and issued a warning to Qatar and other nations harboring terrorists, escalating tensions in the region. The attack has prompted increased regional and international responses, including an upcoming Arab-Islamic summit in Doha and moves by the European Union and other Western countries to pressure Israel toward peace and recognize Palestine's sovereignty.