Netanyahu called the strike on “Hamas” in Qatar a response to the terrorist attack in Jerusalem

On September 9, 2023, Israel notified the US administration of preparations for a strike on members of the political leadership of the Palestinian group “Hamas” located in Qatar, reports AFP citing the White House.

Statements from Israeli Authorities

On the same day, following attacks on targets in the Qatari capital Doha, the press service of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement that the operation against the leaders of “Hamas” was exclusively independent. Israel initiated, carried out, and takes full responsibility for these actions.

Netanyahu, together with Defense Minister Israel Katz, clarified that the decision to eliminate the political leaders of “Hamas” was made on September 8 against the backdrop of a terrorist attack in Jerusalem, which resulted in the deaths of six Israelis.

Reaction to the Operations

“Today (September 9) during the day, taking advantage of an operational opportunity and after coordination with the heads of the security forces, the Prime Minister and the Defense Minister decided to implement the previous directive of the IDF and the security service Shin Bet. The operation was conducted very precisely and effectively,” report Israeli authorities, emphasizing that the army’s actions are “absolutely justified.”

Negative Reaction from Qatar

Qatar, acting as a mediator in the ceasefire negotiations in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages captured on October 7, 2023, sharply condemned Israel’s actions. Critical reactions were also expressed by Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, and many other countries, as well as UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

Reports of Losses Among “Hamas”

Israeli and Arab media, including “Al Arabiya” and “Al Hadath,” claim that several high-ranking representatives of “Hamas” were killed as a result of the strike, including the head of the movement’s overseas office Khalil al-Hayya, the leader of the organization in the West Bank Zaher Jabarin, and the chairman of the Political Bureau Khaled Mashal. However, this information has not been officially confirmed.

Ceasefire Negotiations

According to reports from “Al Jazeera” and other media, “Hamas” leaders gathered in Doha to discuss the latest proposal for a possible agreement with Israel on a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.