The Israeli Air Force has reportedly carried out a direct strike on Hamas leadership in Doha, Qatar, a move that, if confirmed, would represent an unprecedented and major escalation in the conflict. According to Israeli and regional media reports, including from Al Jazeera and Israeli Channel 12, the strike occurred while the Hamas negotiation delegation was in discussions regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace proposal. Israeli media identified Khalil al-Hayya, a key Hamas leader and the group’s chief negotiator in Gaza, as the primary target of the attack.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) have confirmed that they carried out an airstrike “targeting Hamas leadership,” but have not specified the location. However, the announcement was made as explosions were heard in Doha, and Al Jazeera, the Qatari state-funded broadcaster, acknowledged the blasts. Qatari officials have not yet officially commented on the incident. Hamas’s exiled leadership has been based in Qatar for years, and the nation has played a central role as a mediator between the group and Israel.
A strike on Qatari soil would represent a major diplomatic crisis, as it would be the first time Israel has conducted a military operation inside the sovereign territory of the Gulf nation. The move risks a significant fallout with Washington, which has relied on Doha for mediation efforts, and with Tehran, a key ally of Hamas. The timing of the strike is particularly sensitive, as it comes during a crucial period of negotiations over a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.
The reported target, Khalil al-Hayya, is one of the most senior Hamas leaders and has been a central figure in recent ceasefire talks. He also played a key role in the planning and execution of the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. If his death is confirmed, it would be a major blow to Hamas’s political and military structure, but it could also further complicate negotiations and make future diplomatic efforts even more difficult. The situation remains fluid as casualty reports and official international reactions are awaited.
Footage Charlie Kirk has been shot
Charlie Kirk has been shot
