Israel’s military said Tuesday it launched an airstrike aimed at Hamas leadership, though it did not specify the location.
Shortly after the announcement, a powerful explosion was heard in Doha, Qatar’s capital, sending black smoke into the sky. Al Jazeera, the Qatar-based news network, linked the blast to Israel’s statement. It was not immediately known if there were any casualties.
Hamas’ political leadership has long been based in Qatar, which has served as a key mediator in negotiations between the group and Israel for years, including during the current Gaza war.
Analysts warn that a strike targeting Hamas’ exiled leaders could complicate ongoing efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and secure the release of hostages taken in the group’s Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel.
