Several powerful explosions were reported in Doha, Qatar’s capital on Tuesday, sending thick clouds of black smoke billowing over the capital.
Witnesses said at least six blasts were heard in the Katara District, with images showing the city skyline engulfed in smoke.
The blasts reportedly came as Israel targeted Hamas officials believed to be operating in the area.
A senior Israeli official told N12, an Israeli media outlet with close ties to the government, that the incident amounted to an assassination attempt against senior Hamas officials. He added: “The target of the operation was apparently a single explosion carried out at the headquarters of the Hamas terrorist organisation, targeting senior figures in the organisation.”
An IDF spokesperson said: “For years, these members of the Hamas leadership have led the terrorist organisation’s operations.”
“(They) are directly responsible for the brutal October 7 massacre, and have been orchestrating and managing the war against the State of Israel,” he continued.
He added that precautions were taken before the strike to minimize civilian harm, including employing precision munitions and using additional intelligence.
