Israel conducts strike against Hamas leaders in Qatar
- Israel targeted Hamas leaders Khalil al-Hayya and Zaher Jabarin in a military airstrike in Doha, Qatar.
- The IDF emphasized the attack was intended to mitigate civilian casualties while combating Hamas operations.
- Qatar condemned the airstrike as a violation of international laws, heightening tensions in the region.
On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, Israel commenced a military operation that targeted senior officials of Hamas in Doha, Qatar. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israeli Security Agency, known as Shin Bet, confirmed that this operation was a precise airstrike aimed at Khalil al-Hayya and Zaher Jabarin. Both individuals have been linked to orchestrating operations against the State of Israel, notably being involved in the events surrounding the October 7 massacre. Israeli officials asserted that they had informed the U.S. in advance of the airstrikes. They emphasized the rationale behind the attack, indicating that the targeted Hamas leaders had long been responsible for planning terrorist activities against Israel. The IDF's strategy incorporated measures to minimize civilian casualties, including the use of precise munitions, showcasing their commitment to avoiding collateral damage during military operations. In the aftermath of the strikes, Qatar's Foreign Ministry condemned the action, labeling it a cowardly attack on the residential headquarters of Hamas officials. They categorized the Israeli operation as a blatant violation of international laws and norms, which posed a significant threat to the safety of both Qatari citizens and residents. The Ministry confirmed that local security and emergency services acted promptly to manage the repercussions of the attack. Furthermore, reports indicated that Khalil al-Hayya had been actively engaged in ceasefire negotiations related to the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages held by Hamas. Zaher Jabarin played a critical role in the financial decisions and operations of Hamas, particularly in the West Bank. The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the military operation was undertaken independently by Israel, asserting complete responsibility for the action. Subsequent to the strikes, the U.S. Embassy in Qatar issued a shelter-in-place order for American citizens, citing missile strikes occurring in the vicinity.