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Qatar condemned an Israeli airstrike Tuesday targeting Hamas leaders in its capital, calling it a “cowardly attack” and a violation of international law.
Israel’s military said it conducted a “precise strike” against senior Hamas leaders, responsible for the Oct. 7 massacre in Israel, in an operation dubbed “Summit of Fire.” The Israel Defense Forces said precautions were taken to limit civilian harm. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz said the operation was fully justified and carried out independently by Israel.
Witnesses reported explosions and plumes of smoke near a residential compound and a gas station in Doha. Al Jazeera said Hamas leaders were meeting to discuss a U.S. ceasefire proposal at the time of the strike.
The strike drew condemnation from Qatar and other countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey. Qatar said the attack threatened the safety of its citizens and residents and vowed further investigation.
Hamas, designated a terrorist organization by Israel, the U.S. and the EU, has maintained a political office in Doha, which has served as a hub for its diplomacy since the Gaza conflict escalated after the Oct. 7 attack.
The U.S. Embassy in Doha issued a brief shelter-in-place order and later lifted it. Families of hostages taken during the Oct. 7 Hamas attack expressed deep concern over their safety and demanded Israel secure their release.
With information from CBS News.
