In a stunning escalation of Middle East tensions, explosions rocked the Qatari capital of Doha overnight as Israel's Defence Forces claimed responsibility for a precision strike targeting senior Hamas leadership.
The unprecedented attack marks a significant expansion of Israel's military campaign against the militant group, taking the conflict directly to the heart of one of Hamas's key international support bases.
Unprecedented Cross-Border Operation
Israeli military officials confirmed the operation, stating they had successfully targeted several high-value Hamas figures who had been operating from Qatari soil. The strike represents one of the most audacious long-range operations in recent memory, demonstrating Israel's willingness to pursue targets far beyond immediate borders.
Qatari authorities reported multiple explosions in an upscale district of Doha, with emergency services rushing to the scene amid heightened security alerts. Local residents described hearing successive blasts that shook buildings across the city centre.
Regional Tensions Soar
The attack threatens to severely strain Israel-Qatar relations and potentially destabilise the delicate diplomatic landscape of the Persian Gulf. Qatar has long served as a mediator between Israel and Hamas, hosting several senior figures of the militant organization.
Security analysts are calling this the most significant cross-border operation since the killing of Hamas deputy leader Saleh al-Arouri in Beirut earlier this year. The strike demonstrates Israel's increasingly aggressive posture toward Hamas leadership wherever they are located.
International Reaction
World leaders are monitoring the situation closely, with concerns mounting about potential retaliation and further escalation across the region. The British Foreign Office has issued updated travel advice for the region, warning citizens to avoid unnecessary travel to areas affected by the ongoing conflict.
This development comes amid stalled ceasefire negotiations and increasing international pressure on Israel to moderate its military campaign in Gaza. The decision to strike targets in Qatar, a key US ally in the region, signals a potentially new phase in the conflict.
