Israel launched a strike on Hamas leaders in Qatar’s capital — a nation that has been central to Gaza ceasefire mediation — raising fears that hostage talks could collapse.
Hamas announced that five members were killed but said its negotiating team survived. A Qatari security officer also died. The attack drew swift condemnation from Qatar’s prime minister, who called it “state terrorism,” while US President Donald Trump said he was “not thrilled” and promised a fuller response on Wednesday.
The UN Security Council will meet in an emergency session at the request of Algeria and Pakistan, with top UN officials set to brief members on what Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called a “flagrant violation of Qatar’s sovereignty.”
Israel’s ambassador to Washington, Yechiel Leiter, said, “Israel would continue to pursue Hamas leaders anywhere in the world. If we didn’t get them this time, we’ll get them next time … They’ll get over it.” He stressed the strength of US-Israel ties under Trump.
Meanwhile, Asia Pacific nations voiced alarm. Australia’s foreign minister called the strike “the wrong thing to do,” warning it undermined ceasefire efforts. New Zealand, Malaysia, the Maldives, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Japan all condemned the attack, describing it as illegal, reckless, or a threat to regional peace. India expressed “deep concern” but avoided direct censure, urging restraint and dialogue instead.
