In a major escalation of the conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu personally monitored an Israeli Air Force strike on Qatar from the Shin Bet’s underground command center. The strike, carried out on September 9, 2025, targeted senior Hamas officials believed to be meeting in Doha to discuss ceasefire terms.
The Attack
Fifteen Israeli fighter jets conducted precision airstrikes on a residential complex in Doha’s Leqtaifiya district. According to Israeli military officials, the site was being used as a Hamas meeting point. The targets included senior Hamas figures Khalil al-Hayya and Khaled Mashal. Hamas confirmed that several people were killed, including bodyguards and aides, but said its top leaders survived. Israel declared the mission a success, with Netanyahu describing it as “our own operation,” emphasizing that it was planned and executed solely by Israel.
Inside the Shin Bet Bunker
Photos published in Israeli media showed Netanyahu in the Shin Bet command bunker with Defense Minister Israel Katz, acting Shin Bet chief “Mem,” and senior intelligence officers. They monitored the mission live, receiving updates from pilots and intelligence units. The atmosphere highlighted the high stakes of the strike, which Israel portrayed as a necessary response to ongoing Hamas threats.
International and Regional Reaction
The attack sparked strong criticism worldwide. Qatar condemned it as a violation of its sovereignty. Turkey, the Arab League, and other regional powers also denounced the airstrike. In Washington, the White House acknowledged it had been informed but admitted it did not alert Doha in time. President Donald Trump expressed regret but defended Israel’s right to act. In London, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the attack a breach of international law and urged immediate steps to de-escalate.
Impact on Peace Efforts
Qatar has been a key mediator in past ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas. Its outrage over this strike threatens to undermine future talks and complicate international mediation efforts. The move has also raised broader concerns about precedent, with critics warning that cross-border strikes risk destabilizing diplomatic norms.
Netanyahu’s Gamble
For Netanyahu, the strike was designed to project strength at a moment of political pressure and security challenges. Supporters hailed it as decisive leadership, while critics said it was a reckless act that could isolate Israel further on the world stage. Regardless of perspective, Netanyahu’s presence in the Shin Bet bunker during the Doha strike has already become a defining image of his leadership.
The sight of Netanyahu overseeing Israeli fighter jets striking targets in Doha may be remembered as one of the most controversial and symbolic moments of Israel’s military doctrine—assertive, unilateral, and unapologetic.
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Author: Team BTP
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