On September 9, 2025, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet intelligence agency conducted an unprecedented airstrike in Doha, Qatar, targeting senior Hamas leaders. The operation, which aimed to eliminate key figures within the militant group, including prominent negotiator Khalil al-Hayya, marks the first instance of Israeli military action on Qatari soil. This development has significantly heightened regional tensions and cast a shadow over ongoing mediation efforts for a ceasefire and hostage exchange.
The strike occurred near the Legtifya petrol station in Doha, causing visible damage. Qatar, a crucial mediator in the conflict and host to Hamas's political wing, has strongly condemned the Israeli action. Qatari authorities described the strike as a "cowardly attack," a "blatant violation of international law and sovereignty," and a criminal assault threatening regional security. The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, echoed these sentiments, calling the event a "flagrant violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Qatar" and urging a focus on diplomatic solutions.
Khalil al-Hayya, занимавший пост заместителя председателя политического бюро ХАМАС, был ключевым переговорщиком в обсуждениях о прекращении огня и обмене заложниками. The targeting of him and other senior Hamas figures is expected to have a significant impact on the negotiation process. The strike took place shortly after Qatari officials met with Hamas to encourage a positive response to a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal. Despite the attack, Hamas has indicated it may soon respond to the proposal, suggesting a potential continuation of engagement.
The implications of this strike are substantial, directly challenging Qatar's mediating role and potentially eroding the trust essential for its diplomatic efforts. The presence of the U.S. Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest U.S. military installation in the Middle East, adds another layer of complexity to the regional security dynamics. The strike has drawn widespread condemnation from international bodies and nations, including the UAE, Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey, highlighting global concern over the escalating conflict and its potential to destabilize the region.