Israel's military has confirmed it conducted an airstrike on Tuesday, targeting senior Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar. This operation has drawn condemnation from the Qatari government, which described the attack as a violation of international law.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) stated that the strike was aimed at key figures within Hamas, including Khalil al-Hayya, the group's exiled Gaza chief and chief negotiator. The IDF claimed that these leaders have been responsible for orchestrating operations against Israel, including the deadly attack on October 7, 2023.

Explosions were reported in Doha, with smoke seen rising from the area where the strikes occurred. A Hamas official indicated that the group's negotiating team was specifically targeted during a meeting.

Qatar's Foreign Ministry condemned the airstrike, labelling it a "cowardly" act that targeted residential buildings housing members of Hamas's political bureau. Majed al-Ansari, a spokesman for the ministry, stated, "The State of Qatar strongly condemns the cowardly Israeli attack that targeted residential buildings housing several members of the political bureau of Hamas in the Qatari capital, Doha."

The attack comes amid ongoing efforts by Qatar, alongside the United States and Egypt, to mediate a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Despite previous temporary truces, negotiations have yet to yield a lasting resolution.

In response to the airstrike, Iran condemned the action as a "gross violation" of international norms and an infringement on Qatar's sovereignty. The Israeli military's actions have raised concerns about the potential impact on ongoing negotiations regarding hostages taken during the October 7 attack.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has intensified military operations in Gaza, warning residents to evacuate as ground forces prepare for further action. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to navigate the complexities of the conflict.