In a dramatic and unprecedented move, Israel launched airstrikes in Doha, Qatar, targeting senior Hamas officials. This marks the first known Israeli attack on a Gulf Arab state, and it’s already sending shockwaves through the region.
🔥 What Happened
- The strikes hit West Bay Lagoon, a high-end district in Doha, where Hamas leaders were reportedly meeting to discuss a new US-backed ceasefire proposal.
- Six people were killed, including five Hamas members and a Qatari security officer.
- The operation, dubbed “Summit of Fire,” involved over 10 Israeli fighter jets, using radar-evading weapons and mid-air refueling to reach the target.
🛑 Why It’s Controversial
- Qatar condemned the attack as “state terrorism” and a violation of its sovereignty.
- The strike threatens to derail ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, in which Qatar has played a key mediating role.
- The US was reportedly informed too late to intervene, and President Trump publicly distanced himself from the decision, saying he was “not thrilled” about the situation.
🌍 Global Reaction
- Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, and the EU have all condemned the attack.
- The UN Secretary-General and Pope Leo expressed deep concern over the implications for peace and regional stability.
- Qatar has vowed to respond and is conducting high-level investigations.
This strike could reshape diplomatic dynamics in the Middle East and complicate efforts to end the war in Gaza. If you want a deeper dive into the ceasefire proposals or the regional fallout, I can unpack that next.