Qatari PM Criticizes Israel Over Gaza Hostages, Airstrike on Hamas Leaders in Doha

Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani strongly criticized Israel at a UN Security Council meeting for its deadly airstrike targeting Hamas leaders in Doha, accusing Israel of disregarding the hostages held in Gaza and violating Qatari sovereignty. The strike, which killed at least six people including Hamas members and a Qatari security officer, occurred while Hamas leaders were reportedly considering a US-backed ceasefire proposal, threatening ongoing peace negotiations mediated by Qatar and Egypt. Despite condemning the attack and accusing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of undermining hopes for the hostages, Sheikh Mohammed vowed that Qatar would continue its humanitarian and diplomatic efforts to end the nearly two-year conflict. The UN Security Council, including the US, expressed concern and called for de-escalation, though only the US defended Israel's actions, with President Trump describing the strike as unhelpful but potentially an opening for peace. Israel's UN ambassador responded by demanding Qatar expel Hamas or face Israeli action, while regional powers like Saudi Arabia and the UAE condemned the strike and warned of broader Gulf security risks. Meanwhile, tensions extend beyond Gaza as Israeli strikes on Yemen's Houthi-controlled areas continue in retaliation for missile and drone attacks on Israel, highlighting the regional spillover of the conflict.