In a decisive move, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Tuesday that Israel had executed a strike against Hamas leadership in Doha, Qatar.
This action was in response to a series of deadly attacks that had taken place in Jerusalem and Gaza.
According to Breitbart, following these attacks, Netanyahu instructed security agencies to prepare for such an operation, under the watchful eye of Defense Minister Israel Katz. The Prime Minister stated that after discussions with security chiefs, they seized an operational opportunity. He further noted that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Israel Security Agency (ISA) executed the strike "with precision and in an optimal manner."
Both Netanyahu and Katz emphasized the necessity of their action, citing the targeted Hamas leaders' involvement in the October 7 massacre and their continued attacks on Israel. This included their claimed responsibility for Monday's killings in Jerusalem.
The Prime Minister and Defense Minister were united in their belief that the strike was both necessary and justified, given the ongoing threat posed by Hamas to the State of Israel and its citizens.
In a joint statement, the IDF and ISA (Shin Bet) confirmed they had conducted a "precise strike targeting the senior leadership of the Hamas terrorist organization." They pointed out that the targets were directly responsible for the October 7 massacre and ongoing attacks against Israel.
The statement also noted that measures were taken to minimize civilian harm, including the use of precise munitions and additional intelligence. The operation was later named "Summit of Fire."
Until this point, Israel had abstained from targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar, where senior figures have lived in exile for years. Qatar has played a pivotal role in negotiations between Israel and Hamas, particularly concerning the release of hostages, often working in tandem with Egypt. However, this strike marks a significant shift in Israel's approach.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry expressed its condemnation of the strike. Spokesman Majed Al Ansari described it as a "criminal assault" and a "blatant violation of all international laws and norms," stating that it "targeted residential buildings housing several members of the Political Bureau of Hamas."
Netanyahu, however, underscored Israel's autonomy in making the decision, stating, "Today's action against the top terrorist chieftains of Hamas was a wholly independent Israeli operation. Israel initiated it, Israel conducted it, and Israel takes full responsibility."
This strike followed Israel's acceptance, and Hamas's rejection, of terms proposed by President Donald Trump for ending the war in Gaza. These terms included the release of remaining hostages and the disarmament of Hamas.
Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed on Tuesday that Israel was ready to end the war "tomorrow" if hostages were released and Hamas disarmed. He warned that without these conditions, Gaza City would face potential destruction. This firm stance underscores Israel's commitment to protecting its citizens and maintaining its sovereignty, even in the face of international criticism.
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