Israel's Airstrike on Hamas in Qatar Sparks Outrage, Dashes Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
In a shocking move that has sent shockwaves throughout the Gulf region, Israel launched an airstrike targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar on September 10, 2025. The attack has been widely condemned by Qatari officials and has dealt a significant blow to efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza.
According to reports from multiple sources, including NPR Politics and NPR News, the Israeli airstrike targeted Hamas members in Doha, Qatar's capital city. The attack was carried out despite Qatar's long-standing policy of neutrality in regional conflicts. Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani addressed a press conference following the strike, calling it an act of "state terrorism."
"This is an unprecedented escalation by Israel," said Al Thani, according to NPR Politics. "We will not tolerate such actions on our soil." The Qatari government has since summoned the Israeli ambassador to express its outrage and demand an explanation for the attack.
The airstrike has also raised concerns about the safety of Hamas leaders who have been based in Qatar for several years. According to NPR News, the Israeli military had warned Hamas leaders in advance that they would be targeted if they did not leave Qatar. However, it appears that some Hamas officials remained in the country despite these warnings.
The attack on Hamas in Qatar has dealt a significant blow to efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza. Diplomatic sources have told NPR Politics that the Israeli strike has made it increasingly difficult for mediators to bring the parties together for talks. "This development is a major setback for our efforts," said one diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has been ongoing for several years, with both sides trading blows in recent weeks. The situation remains volatile, with many experts warning that the latest escalation could lead to further violence.
In the aftermath of the airstrike, Qatari officials have called for an emergency meeting of the Arab League to discuss the implications of Israel's actions. The United States has also been briefed on the situation and is said to be considering its next steps.
As tensions continue to rise in the region, one thing is clear: the Israeli airstrike on Hamas in Qatar has sent shockwaves throughout the Gulf and has dealt a significant blow to efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza.
This story was compiled from reports by NPR Politics and NPR News.
