After failing to eliminate Hamas leaders in a Tuesday airstrike on Qatar, Israel is determined to succeed in future attempts, according to the Israeli ambassador to the U.S. This operation has sparked concerns about derailing ceasefire efforts in Gaza.
“Although we face some criticism now, it will fade. Israel is undergoing positive changes,” Yechiel Leiter told Fox News’ “Special Report” on Tuesday night.
The attack targeted Hamas political leaders in Doha, Qatar, intensifying Israel’s Middle East military actions. The U.S. labeled it a unilateral move not aligning with American or Israeli interests.
The airstrike followed a Hamas-claimed shooting on Monday that killed six at a Jerusalem bus stop.
The Doha strike was particularly controversial as Qatar has been mediating ceasefire talks in the Gaza conflict.
“If we missed them this time, we’ll hit them next,” Leiter stated.
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu continues military operations despite global disapproval, expanding actions across the Middle East and weakening Iran-backed adversaries since the 2023 Hamas attack on Israel.
On Wednesday, Israel targeted Yemen’s capital Sanaa, following an August attack that killed Houthi Prime Minister Ahmad Ghaleb al-Rahwi and other leaders.
Witnesses reported the attack focused on the Houthi defense ministry, while Israeli Army Radio noted military camps and headquarters were also hit.
The Israeli military confirmed the Yemen strikes in a statement.
The Houthis have targeted Red Sea vessels in solidarity with Palestinians since the Gaza conflict began.
Leader’s Son Among Casualties
Hamas confirmed five members, including the exiled Gaza chief’s son, Khalil al-Hayya, died in the Doha strike, though top leaders survived.
The attack provoked diplomatic responses from Arab nations.
UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited Qatar on Wednesday, reported UAE’s WAM.
Jordan’s Crown Prince Hussein and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman are also expected in Qatar soon, an official informed Reuters.
The visits signify regional support for Qatar following the Israeli attacks, the official noted.
The European Commission plans to propose sanctions against extremist Israeli ministers and suspend trade measures in an EU-Israel agreement, stated President Ursula von der Leyen.
These proposals mirror rising EU criticism of Israel’s Gaza war conduct and pressure on the EU executive to act.
Germany, a firm Israel ally, is considering these proposals and will engage in dialogue on future actions, said Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Wednesday.
The Doha strike followed an Israeli warning to Gaza City Palestinians, an area previously home to a million, as Israel aims to dismantle Hamas.
Residents worried the Doha strike could hinder ceasefire prospects.
MISSILES STRIKE HIGH-RISE
Families, some with belongings on vehicles, donkey carts, and rickshaws, continued fleeing Gaza City along the coast, fearing a major Israeli offensive. “Does this mean a ceasefire is hopeless? I fear Israel may accelerate Gaza City occupation,” said Um Tamer, 65, a mother of five.
At least 30 fatalities occurred across the enclave on Wednesday, reported medics.
US: CEASEFIRE TALKS IMPACT UNCLEAR
When asked about the strike’s effect on ceasefire talks, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee told Reuters, “Frankly, we don’t know. Hamas has rejected every proposal so far.”
The militant group, ruling Gaza for nearly 20 years but now controlling limited areas, reiterated its offer to release all hostages if Israel ends the war and withdraws.
Netanyahu seeks an all-inclusive deal for hostage release and Hamas surrender.
The October 7, 2023, attack by the Palestinian militant group resulted in 1,200 deaths, mostly civilians, and 251 hostages, per Israeli data.
Israel’s Gaza military response has killed over 64,000 people, mostly civilians, per local health authorities, turning the enclave to rubble.
