Qatar condemned Israel’s strike in Doha that killed Hamas leaders, calling it “state terrorism” and vowing a response. The attack, denounced by allies and criticised by Trump, risks escalating tensions and derailing Gaza ceasefire talks.
Qatar has condemned Israel’s strike in Doha that targeted Hamas political leaders, calling it a “blatant attack” and warning that it reserves the right to respond.
Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani denounced the strike late Tuesday, describing it as “state terrorism” that undermines regional security.
“Qatar… reserves the right to respond to this blatant attack,” he told reporters. “We believe we have reached a pivotal moment. There must be a regional response to such barbaric actions.”
Israel, meanwhile, defended its operations. Defence Minister Israel Katz warned that Israel’s reach extends worldwide, saying its enemies “are not safe anywhere.” In a post on X, he added: “Everyone who took part in the October 7 massacre will be held fully accountable. Anyone who carries out terror against Israel will be harmed.”
The comments came a day after Israeli strikes in Doha targeted senior Hamas figures. The attack has further heightened tensions, with Katz reiterating that Israel will pursue Hamas operatives globally in response to the group’s October 2023 assault that triggered the Gaza war.
US President Donald Trump said earlier Tuesday that Washington had not been informed beforehand about the strike. He expressed dissatisfaction, noting that the attack came against a key American ally.
“I’m just, I’m not thrilled about the whole situation,” Trump told reporters as he made a rare outing onto Washington’s streets. “We want the hostages back, but we are not thrilled about the way that went down today.”
Israeli strike on Tuesday on a building in Doha killed at least six people in a neighbourhood that is home to foreign embassies and schools.
The strike on the territory of a U.S. ally drew widespread condemnation from countries in the Mideast and beyond. It also marked a dramatic escalation in the region and risked upending talks aimed at ending the war and freeing hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza.
With inputs from agencies
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