Hamas Reports Losses in Israeli Airstrike in Doha, Tensions Escalate

Sat Sep 13 2025 06:43:55 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Following an Israeli airstrike in Doha targeting Hamas leaders, the Palestinian group claims six deaths while asserting the survival of its negotiating team. The incident raises significant international concerns and tensions in the Middle East.

Hamas confirmed that six members were killed during an Israeli air strike in Doha, Qatar, targeting its leaders involved in ceasefire negotiations. The Israeli government justified the attack as 'fully justified' due to prior attacks on Israel by Hamas. Qatar condemned the strike as a violation of international law, with international leaders calling for calm and emphasizing the need for a diplomatic resolution.

The Palestinian armed group Hamas has confirmed that five of its members were killed in an Israeli air strike in Qatar's capital, Doha, but claimed that an attempt to assassinate its negotiating team 'failed'. The incident marks a significant escalation of hostilities as the group was meeting to discuss a proposed ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the attack, asserting that it targeted senior Hamas leaders who orchestrated the deadly October 7 attacks on Israel, which initiated the current Gaza war. In contrast, Qatar condemned the action, labeling it a 'cowardly' act and a 'flagrant violation of international law'.

The airstrike, reportedly involving dozens of Israeli fighter jets, resulted in a considerable blow to a residential area in Doha, which housed several members of Hamas's political bureau. Witnesses described multiple explosions accompanied by plumes of smoke. While Qatari officials confirmed fatalities, they did not specify particulars about Hamas casualties, only stating that one member of their Internal Security Force had perished.

The White House expressed regret over the incident, with President Donald Trump commenting that while the elimination of Hamas aligns with US goals, the attack could hinder diplomatic efforts in the region. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that Hamas's aggression warranted military action, but criticized Israel for not coordinating its strikes with Qatar, a key US ally.

Hamas's statement condemned the attack as 'a heinous crime' and accused Israel of intentionally sabotaging negotiation prospects. They also placed blame on the US for their endorsement of Israeli military actions.

International condemnation poured in following the airstrike, with various leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and UN Secretary General António Guterres, criticizing the attack and advocating for a path toward peace rather than continued violence.

With ongoing fears for hostages held in Gaza, families expressed grave concern over the potential ramifications of such military actions. Israeli opposition leaders echoed these worries, stressing the need for the government to ensure the safety of hostages while dealing with Hamas effectively.

The conflict's escalating violence highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, as countries continue to navigate their positions on the Israeli-Palestinian issue amidst calls for ceasefire and humanitarian considerations.