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Explosions in Doha spark alarm as Israeli strike reportedly targets Hamas leaders
A series of powerful explosions shook Doha on Tuesday afternoon, sending plumes of smoke over the Katara cultural district and plunging the Qatari capital into shock and confusion.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple blasts just before 3 p.m., with thick columns of smoke spreading across the city skyline. Residents were seen gathering in the streets, seeking clarity as the situation unfolded. Reuters correspondents described an atmosphere of concern as local authorities moved quickly to secure the affected area.
Although Qatari officials have not yet issued an official statement, Israeli sources, cited by media outlets including Axios and CNN, claimed responsibility for the airstrikes, alleging they targeted senior Hamas leaders operating in Doha. The reported attack represents an unprecedented escalation, as Israel has not previously conducted military operations on Qatari soil.
According to these sources, the strikes aimed at key Hamas figures, coinciding with heightened tensions in the region. On the same day, Khalil Al-Hayya, Hamas’ chief negotiator, had met with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, underscoring the sensitive timing of the incident. Doha has long served as a diplomatic hub for Hamas officials, who use the city for political coordination.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed in a statement that they carried out a “precise strike” in coordination with intelligence agencies, targeting senior Hamas operatives while attempting to minimize collateral damage.
Hamas has not issued an official response to the attack. Meanwhile, Qatari police have cordoned off the affected area, and investigations are ongoing.
This development marks a significant escalation in the Israel-Hamas conflict, extending the volatile situation into Qatar, a nation that has historically played a mediating role in ceasefire negotiations between the two sides. The explosions have left residents of Doha on edge, with visible damage in the Katara district serving as a stark reminder of the fragile geopolitics influencing the Gulf region.
As investigations continue, authorities worldwide are closely monitoring the situation for further developments.
