A series of explosions rocked Qatar’s Katara district late Monday night, with residents reporting at least eight powerful blasts that sent waves of panic through the capital. Authorities later confirmed the blasts were the result of an Israeli aerial attack targeting a gathering of senior Hamas officials.

Among those killed was Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya, who was reportedly attending a high-level meeting to deliberate on U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza. Fears mounted that the death toll could rise, as several senior Hamas figures were present at the gathering.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos in Katara, a district usually known for its cultural centers and tourist attractions. Families fled their homes, traffic gridlocked the main coastal road, and emergency services rushed to the area amid fears of further strikes. Glass from shattered windows littered the streets, and several nearby businesses suffered damage from the concussive blasts.

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Qatar strongly condemned the strike, calling it a “serious and heinous violation of international laws” and a grave breach of its sovereignty. The Foreign Ministry said such actions undermine Qatar’s efforts to mediate peace and destabilize the broader region.

Israel swiftly claimed responsibility, stating that the United States had been informed in advance of the operation. Israeli officials went further, alleging that Washington provided logistical support in carrying out the strikes.

Analysts warned the attack could have wide-ranging repercussions beyond Gaza. Qatar has played an active role in international diplomacy, including mediation in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Experts now caution that its credibility as a neutral broker may be severely undermined.

“This strike was not just against Hamas—it was a strike on Qatar’s position in the world,” said one regional analyst. “It sends a signal that hosting Hamas leaders may come with risks, but it also jeopardizes Doha’s role as a trusted mediator in multiple conflicts.”

While rescue operations continued into the night, residents of Doha voiced anger and fear at what they described as an unprecedented breach of their security. “We never thought our city would be a battlefield,” said a Katara shopkeeper who witnessed the explosions.

The situation remains tense, with international calls expected to mount for restraint as the risk of escalation grows.