Hamas issues statement after ‘Israeli’ strike on leadership in Qatar

Hamas said Tuesday that an ‘Israeli’ assassination attempt on its negotiating delegation in Doha, Qatar, was unsuccessful.

Read more: Trump does not support ‘Israel’ attack on Qatar: White House

Casualties of the Attack

While the delegation's leadership was unharmed, the strike killed several people, according to the Hamas statement. They were identified as:

• Jihad Labad (Abu Bilal) – Office Director for Dr. Khalil al-Hayya
• Hamam al-Hayya (Abu Yahya) – Son of Dr. Khalil al-Hayya
• Abdullah Abdel Wahed (Abu Khalil) – Escort
• Momen Hassouneh (Abu Omar) – Escort
• Ahmed al-Mamlouk (Abu Malek) – Escort

The statement also mourned the death of Corporal Bader Saad Mohammed al-Humaidi, a member of Qatar's internal security forces.

Attack Occurred During Talks on US Proposal

Hamas said that the attack, which took place as the delegation was discussing US President Donald Trump's latest proposal for a Gaza ceasefire, confirms that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government do not want an agreement.

The group accused the ‘Israeli’ government of "deliberately seeking to thwart all opportunities and sabotage international efforts," without regard for the lives of ‘Israeli’ captives or regional security.

Hamas held the US administration jointly responsible for the attack, citing its "constant support" for what it called ‘Israel's’ aggression and crimes.

Hamas Demands 

The group's statement concluded by reiterating its demands for a ceasefire and its commitment to what it called the "path of resistance." Hamas's demands include:

• An immediate end to the aggression and a full withdrawal of the ‘Israeli’ army from Gaza.
• A "real" prisoner exchange.
• Humanitarian relief and reconstruction.