Israel Attacks Hamas Leaders in Qatar, White House Calls Strike Unfortunate as World Condemns

Israel launched an airstrike targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar on Tuesday (Sept 9), sparking strong global condemnation. The White House described the unilateral strike as not serving U.S. or Israeli interests.

The attack killed five Hamas members, including the son of exiled leader Khalil al-Hayya, though Hamas said its senior figures survived. Qatar, a key mediator in Gaza ceasefire talks, denied receiving advance warning despite U.S. claims.

President Donald Trump assured the Emir of Qatar that such an incident would not be repeated, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the strike as retaliation for a deadly Jerusalem shooting and the loss of Israeli soldiers in Gaza.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and the European Union condemned the strike as a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and international law. The UN and Pope also expressed concern over the consequences of Israel’s actions in the region.