Hamas leader attacked in Doha, Qatar, prompts fierce response from Wadephul

Attack on Hamas Leader in Doha Sparks Sharply Worded Response from Wadephul (Israel) - Hamas leader under attack in Doha revealed by Israel; Wadephul responds sharply

In an unprecedented move, Israel allegedly launched an attack on residential buildings in Doha, Qatar, on September 9, 2025. The attack targeted members of the Hamas Political Bureau, including Khalil al-Hayya, Khaled Meshaal, and Zaher Jabarin, who were holding a meeting at the time.

The attack is said to have been aimed at Hamas leaders responsible for terror operations and the ongoing war against Israel. This incident comes at a time when Qatar, Egypt, and the US are mediating the Gaza conflict between Israel and Hamas, but negotiations for a ceasefire have stalled for months.

Qatar, known for its safety, has been a host to the political representation of Hamas and has been a key player in the region. The country also hosts the largest US military base in the Middle East, Al-Udeid Air Base, which houses the regional headquarters of the US Central Command.

The exact location of the attack was not disclosed, but reports of explosions in Doha emerged beforehand. A spokesperson for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that a residential building in Doha, where several Hamas political bureau members were staying, was struck.

Israel's government has justified the strike as a "completely independent Israeli operation," with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu deciding on the "neutralization of the Hamas leadership" following recent deadly attacks. US President Donald Trump is reported to have given the green light for the attack.

However, the international community has strongly condemned the attack. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the attack as a "blatant violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity" of Qatar. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has also criticized the attack as "unacceptable."

As of now, there has been no confirmation of the death or injury of any Hamas officials, including Khalil al-Haya, who is the highest-ranking Hamas leader abroad and heads the Hamas delegation in indirect talks with Israel on a ceasefire. This incident is the first attack on Qatar since its independence over 50 years ago.

This attack comes amidst a series of violent incidents in the region. Hamas was reportedly behind both the Jerusalem attack and an attack on soldiers in the Gaza Strip. The situation remains tense, and the international community is closely monitoring the developments.