Israel’s recent bombing in Doha was reportedly intended to eliminate the Hamas leaders obstructing ceasefire negotiations in Gaza, according to President Isaac Herzog. The strike targeted individuals, including Khalil al-Hayya, who repeatedly rejected peace proposals from Israel. Herzog stated that the goal was to address the leadership’s resistance to peace agreements, particularly pointing out al-Hayya’s opposition to such deals.
The attack, resulting in six casualties, occurred prior to Herzog’s meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss the Gaza situation. While the identities of the deceased Palestinians remain unconfirmed, the incident has dimmed hopes for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, where violent conflicts persist. The escalating violence has led to a significant death toll in Gaza, with over 50 Palestinians feared dead since the previous day, bringing the total toll in the region to over 64,600.
Medical organization Médecins Sans Frontières condemned the ongoing assault on Gaza City, labeling it a “death sentence” for the residents. The organization highlighted the dire situation facing hundreds of critically ill patients and newborns who would struggle to relocate due to the destruction caused by the attacks.
The strike in a residential area of Doha targeted Hamas members but did not completely destroy the complex. The precise targeting of the Hamas team suggests a planned missile attack backed by ground intelligence. The incident has drawn condemnation from various countries in the Middle East and beyond, raising concerns about the region’s stability and ongoing peace negotiations. The impact on the hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza remains a significant concern following the attack.