Israel Launches Airstrike on Hamas Leaders in Qatar Amid Middle East Escalation

Israel expanded its military operations in the Middle East by launching an airstrike targeting Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar, where the group maintains its political base. Although Hamas officials involved in ceasefire negotiations reportedly survived the attack, Israeli officials expressed optimism about its success in weakening Hamas leadership. The airstrike drew widespread condemnation from regional actors including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, who decried the attack as a violation of sovereignty and international law and warned it would hinder peace efforts. The strike complicates ongoing ceasefire talks, which had been facilitated in Qatar and included proposals from former US President Donald Trump. The incident has heightened tensions across the region, with critics accusing Israel of pursuing expansionist policies and prolonging conflict rather than peace. Despite the turmoil, Qatar's authorities stated that the situation in Doha remains under control and calm.