Hamas has accused the United States of complicity in Israel’s deadly attack on its negotiators in Qatar. The group said the strike aimed to destroy ongoing Gaza ceasefire talks and weaken regional mediation efforts.
Funerals in Doha
On Thursday, Qatar buried the victims of the unprecedented attack. The funeral took place at Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Wahhab Mosque in Doha under heavy security.
Qatar’s ruler, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, joined mourners in prayer. Coffins draped in Palestinian and Qatari flags were carried into the mosque before being taken to Mesaimeer Cemetery.
Among the dead were five Hamas members, including Hamam al-Hayya, the son of senior negotiator Khalil al-Hayya. His office director and three bodyguards also died. A Qatari soldier, Lance Corporal Badr Saad Mohammed al-Humaidi al-Dosari, was killed as well. Hamas said al-Hayya’s family members were injured in the strike.
Accusations and Reactions
Hamas official Fawzi Barhoum called the assault “an assassination of the entire negotiation process.” He said Washington was “a full accomplice” in the attack.
The White House responded by saying former President Donald Trump did not approve the operation. Officials claimed he was not informed in advance. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff reportedly tried to warn Qatar, but the strike had already begun.
Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said the attack killed hopes for an agreement on Israeli hostages held in Gaza. He announced that Qatar is now reassessing its role as mediator.
Regional Impact
The attack has drawn strong condemnation across the Gulf. The United Arab Emirates warned that any aggression against a Gulf Cooperation Council member state is a threat to the region’s collective security.
Sheikh Mohammed also called for a united Arab-Islamic response. He suggested a summit in Doha could be held to decide on the next steps.
The strike, the first of its kind in a Gulf state, has raised fears of further instability. With negotiations already stalled, Qatar’s role as a key mediator is now in doubt.
