Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that removing Hamas leaders based in Qatar is essential to ending the war in Gaza and securing the release of Israeli hostages. In a recent public statement, he accused those leaders of deliberately obstructing ceasefire efforts in order to prolong the conflict indefinitely.
He stated that “the Hamas terrorist chiefs living in Qatar don’t care about the people in Gaza” and alleged that “they blocked all ceasefire attempts.” Netanyahu added, “Getting rid of them would eliminate the main obstacle to releasing all our hostages and ending the war.”
Reactions
Hostages’ Families Forum
In response, the Forum of Families of Hostages and Missing Israelis issued a strongly worded statement. They argued that the biggest obstacle to securing the release of hostages and ending the war is Netanyahu himself. According to the forum, “Every time a deal seems within reach, Netanyahu finds a way to sabotage it.”
Hamas’ Response
Hamas stated that the Israeli strike on its negotiating delegation in Doha failed, confirming that the targeted leaders survived. The group condemned the attack, accusing Israel of undermining ongoing efforts toward a ceasefire and prisoner exchange.
Qatar and International Community
The airstrike on Qatari soil has triggered regional and international criticism. Qatar denounced the attack as a violation of its sovereignty and condemned any pressure to expel Hamas officials involved in mediation. Observers warn that the strike may jeopardize Qatar’s role as a key mediator in negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
Strategic and Political Implications
This unprecedented move marks a significant escalation in Israel’s military and diplomatic posture. While Israel has previously targeted Hamas leaders in Lebanon, Syria, and even Iran, striking inside Qatar a U.S.-aligned state and host to a major American military base, signals a dramatic widening of Israel’s operational boundaries.
Analysts note that Netanyahu appears to be operating with fewer constraints than in the past, willing to take actions that may risk international fallout. The strike is also seen by some as an attempt to shift the dynamics of negotiation, by removing external Hamas leadership and potentially placing more pressure on its Gaza-based commanders.
However, critics argue that the operation may backfire. If the leadership survives, they may return to negotiations with a hardened stance. Moreover, undermining Qatar’s role could remove one of the few viable channels for indirect dialogue, potentially complicating future hostage negotiations.
For Netanyahu, the political stakes are high. Domestically, such actions may appeal to his right-wing base, projecting strength and resolve. But internationally, the backlash could further isolate Israel and complicate its alliances, particularly with the United States and moderate Arab states.
