German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul strongly condemned Israel’s attack targeting high-ranking Hamas members in Doha. He stated that the action not only violates Qatar’s territorial sovereignty but also jeopardizes ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages. Wadephul expressed serious concerns regarding the safety and well-being of hostages held by Hamas, including German citizens and conveyed these anxieties to his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Sa’ar, in a telephone conversation.
Acknowledging Qatar’s crucial role in mediation efforts to achieve a ceasefire and facilitate the release of hostages, Wadephul reiterated his solidarity and gratitude to Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed for these ongoing endeavors. He urged all parties to intensify efforts to achieve a ceasefire and ensure the return of hostages to their families. Wadephul emphasized that a cessation of hostilities and an end to the terror against Israel remains the responsibility of Hamas. He further linked the current escalation to the abhorrent Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
The U.S. government also commented on the incident, confirming that they were informed by the U.S. military that Israel had attacked Hamas members who were present in a portion of Doha. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated that Israel’s unilateral bombardment of Qatar serves “neither Israel’s goals nor those of the United States” while reaffirming the shared objective of dismantling Hamas, which has purportedly benefited from the suffering of the people in Gaza. President Donald Trump suggested that this regrettable event could potentially present an opportunity for peace.
Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), in conjunction with Israel’s domestic intelligence agency (ISA), executed the operation in Doha targeting what the Israeli military asserts is the leadership of Hamas. These targeted individuals are accused of having directed the terror organization’s operations for years and of direct responsibility for the horrific massacres of October 7th. Qatar has formally condemned the attack.