Israel attacks Hamas leaders in Doha amid rising tensions

On September 9, 2025, Israel conducted an unprecedented attack targeting Hamas leadership in Doha, Qatar. The operation, referred to as 'Summit of Fire', marked a significant escalation in Israeli military actions against Hamas, indicating a shift in tactics to include operations within Qatari territory rather than limiting strikes to Gaza. Witnesses reported hearing several explosions and saw smoke rising from damaged areas in the capital, highlighting the operation's immediate impact on urban life. In response to the attack, the Qatari Foreign Ministry condemned it as a 'cowardly' and 'criminal assault', labeling it a blatant violation of international laws and norms. This sentiment was echoed by Jordan's foreign minister, who condemned the strike as a flagrant violation of international law and expressed solidarity with Qatar should they choose to respond. The Palestinian Authority also condemned the strike as a threat to regional security and stability, echoing the sentiments shared by Qatari authorities. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed that the attack specifically targeted senior leaders of Hamas who have allegedly been responsible for orchestrating operations against Israel, particularly mentioning their involvement in events related to the October 7 massacre. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu characterized the operation as a delinquent act to eliminate threats posed by Hamas's leadership, perceiving it as vital to Israel's national security strategies. Moreover, an Israeli official stated that the United States had been informed prior to executing the attack, indicating a level of coordination, albeit the American administration’s formal reaction to the operations has not yet been disclosed. As a precautionary measure following the attack, the U.S. embassy in Qatar issued a shelter-in-place order for its personnel, signaling the increased concern about security in the region post-attack. Videos circulating on social media portrayed chaotic scenes in Doha as residents fled from the explosions, further amplifying the fear surrounding the escalation of violence in the area. The ramifications of this conflict and Israel's unprecedented military action in a country like Qatar could lead to increased tensions across the region, and further questions about the implications for international relations and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas remain prevalent.