Israel Strikes Hamas Leaders in Qatar Amid Ongoing Conflict

UPDATE: Israel has launched a surprise airstrike targeting Hamas’ top leaders in Qatar while they deliberated on a new ceasefire proposal. This bold move underscores the urgency of Israel’s campaign against Hamas, which has faced mounting challenges despite significant military efforts.

Hamas claims its senior leaders survived the Tuesday strike, but the group has provided no evidence and remains tight-lipped following previous attacks. The situation remains critical as Hamas continues to hold approximately 20 hostages in the Gaza Strip, raising tensions for both sides.

Despite Israel’s offensive aimed at seizing control of Gaza City, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s promise of “total victory” seems increasingly elusive. The militant group, which has endured two years of war, has demonstrated resilience by blending into civilian populations and maintaining support among residents, even as its governance in Gaza has weakened significantly.

Reports indicate that nearly all of Hamas’ top leaders and thousands of fighters have been killed in what has become one of the most devastating military campaigns since World War II. Yet, Hamas reportedly still commands thousands of fighters, with some recruited amidst the ongoing conflict. The Israeli military estimates that over 20,000 Hamas fighters have been killed, but recruitment efforts have kept their numbers stable.

The humanitarian toll is staggering, with tens of thousands of Palestinian civilians reported dead and vast areas of Gaza reduced to rubble. As Israel asserts control over 75% of the territory, the plight of 2 million Palestinians trapped in conflict raises profound moral questions about the cost of this war. Aid groups and UN agencies are now the primary providers of public services, as significant portions of the Hamas-run government have collapsed.

The strike in Qatar adds to Israel’s growing isolation on the global stage, with even friendly Arab nations expressing concern over its actions. This isolation could bolster Hamas’ standing among its supporters in Gaza, where remnants of its governance still operate despite the chaos.

Reports reveal that Hamas’ security forces, though diminished, continue to enforce order in parts of Gaza City and central regions. Local leaders, such as Nahed Sheheiber of Gaza’s truckers’ union, confirm that Hamas members are still active, conducting operations against looting and theft. Meanwhile, ordinary citizens report receiving partial salaries from the Hamas administration, despite the government’s overall disarray.

In the military arena, approximately 50 Israeli soldiers have died in Gaza since March, primarily due to hit-and-run attacks and explosive traps. On Monday, a bomb attack on a tank in Gaza City resulted in the deaths of four Israeli soldiers, amplifying public scrutiny over the ongoing military campaign.

Looking ahead, the situation remains precarious. Calls for a ceasefire that leaves Hamas armed could lead to renewed violence, raising fears of a repeat of the devastating October 7, 2023 attack. As the war continues, the cycle of violence shows no signs of abating.

Hamas has indicated a willingness to share power with other Palestinian factions but refuses to disarm, complicating any potential resolution. Experts warn that as long as the people of Gaza perceive Hamas as a viable governance option, the cycle of conflict is likely to persist.

The international community watches closely as both Israel and Hamas navigate this complex and deadly landscape. While Israel seeks to dismantle Hamas’ capabilities, the group’s ability to adapt and survive poses a significant challenge to achieving lasting peace in the region.

For ongoing updates and in-depth insights, follow AP’s coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict at apnews.com.