Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter promised decisive action against Hamas leadership following Tuesday’s airstrike on Qatar, declaring Israel would succeed next time if it missed its targets during the controversial operation. This bold statement follows the airstrike targeting Hamas officials in Doha despite Qatar’s ceasefire mediation role.
Strike Sparks Diplomatic Firestorm
The attack occurred shortly after Hamas claimed responsibility for a deadly Jerusalem bus stop shooting. Consequently, it severely jeopardizes fragile Gaza ceasefire negotiations Qatar actively hosts and mediates. Leiter acknowledged potential criticism but insisted, “Israel is being changed for the better.” He explicitly stated, “If we didn’t get them this time, we’ll get them the next time.”
Meanwhile, Israel extended its military campaign by striking Houthi targets in Yemen’s capital Sanaa on Wednesday, following the late August killing of Houthi Prime Minister Ahmad Ghaleb al-Rahwi and other senior figures. Israeli Army Radio confirmed attacks hit Houthi headquarters, military camps, and the defense ministry. The Houthis consistently attack Red Sea vessels citing Palestinian solidarity since the Gaza war began.
Ceasefire Hopes Hang in Balance
Hamas confirmed Israeli forces killed five members in Doha, including Khalil al-Hayya’s son, though top leaders survived. Consequently, Arab nations swiftly demonstrated regional solidarity with Qatar through high-level visits. UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed arrived Wednesday, followed by Jordan’s Crown Prince Hussein and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Furthermore, the European Commission proposed sanctioning extremist Israeli ministers and suspending trade benefits within the EU-Israel agreement. President Ursula von der Leyen cited growing criticism of Israel’s Gaza conduct, while Germany, a key Israeli ally, confirmed it will participate in upcoming EU discussions about these measures.
US Ambassador Mike Huckabee admitted uncertainty about the strike’s ceasefire impact, noting Hamas “continually rejects every offer.” Netanyahu demands an all-or-nothing deal requiring Hamas surrender and full hostage release. This stance ignores Hamas’s Saturday offer to free all hostages if Israel ends the war and withdraws.
Local health authorities report that Israeli forces have killed over 64,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, reducing Gaza to rubble since the war began in October 2023. At least 30 more Gazans died Wednesday as Israeli warnings forced mass displacement from Gaza City, as residents fear the Doha strike destroys any remaining ceasefire chance entirely.
