Tensions in the Middle East have sharply escalated after an Israeli strike in Doha targeted the leadership of Hamas’s negotiating team, an action widely viewed as a dramatic challenge to Doha’s long-standing role as mediator in talks over Gaza.
What happened in Doha
Israeli forces struck in Qatar’s capital, aiming at the group of Hamas negotiators based there. Early reports suggest the attack was unsuccessful in killing key figures, but the incident has nevertheless been treated across the Gulf and beyond as proof that Israel is not pursuing a ceasefire, hostage releases or a negotiated two-state settlement.
Qatar condemns the attack and seeks a collective Arab response
Qatar’s prime minister and foreign minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, told CNN that Doha views the strike as effectively “killing” its mediator role. He said Qatar is consulting regional allies about a coordinated reaction and that authorities are exploring a form of collective response meant to deter further Israeli actions. “We hope it will be something substantial that will stop Israel from continuing this bullying,” he said, adding that the attack had undermined chances for a ceasefire and hostage releases.
Netanyahu defends the operation, issues stark warning
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended authorising the strike and issued a forceful message to countries he accused of harbouring militants. In a video statement he said states must “either expel them or put them on trial — because if you don’t, we will.” Netanyahu framed the action as a necessary response to October 7, calling it comparable to past counter-terror efforts and accusing critics who applauded those operations of double standards.
Observers cited in the aftermath described the Doha strike as a pivotal moment that may reshape regional balances. The fact that the target was Qatar — a Gulf state that has played a mediating role — has intensified alarm across Arab capitals and highlighted deepening divisions over how to resolve the Gaza crisis.
