On 09 September at approximately 1600 local time, Israeli warplanes struck at least one target in Doha, Qatar, with explosions reported in the Katara neighborhood. According to Israeli officials, the targets were Hamas’ headquarters in Doha and its senior leaders who were reportedly convening to discuss a Gaza ceasefire deal. At this time, there are conflicting reports surrounding the identities of the intended targets and their current status. Israel says the strike on Hamas leadership in Doha was coordinated in advance with the US. The assassination attempt in the Qatari capital comes amid a renewed U.S. effort to reach a Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. Global Guardian assesses that the incident is "closed" with a low likelihood of Israeli follow-on strikes in Qatar or Iranian direct retaliation on Israel in the immediate term.
Situation Report
- On 09 September, Hamas claimed responsibility for a bus shooting attack in Jerusalem that killed six on 08 September.
- On 08 September, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a “final warning” to Hamas in Gaza and “in luxury hotels abroad.”
- On 08 September, Qatar's prime minister met with Hamas leaders in Doha, urging them accept the new U.S. proposal.
- On 07 September, President Donald Trump issued a Truth Social post urging Hamas to accept the last offer: “I have warned Hamas about the consequences of not accepting. This is my last warning, there will not be another one!”
Analysis
Today's targeted assassination attempt follows a pattern of Israeli "decapitation" strikes across the region. This move was likely triggered by yesterday's terror attack in Jerusalem, and it constitutes a last-ditch effort to pressure Hamas into a deal and likely came with American acquiescence, reflecting the Trump administration's growing frustrations with the lack of progress on a ceasefire. At this time, it is unclear whether Qatar was given prior warning of the impending strikes. But what is clear is that these strikes are intended to drive a wedge between Hamas and Qatar.
Recommendations
- Prepare for contingencies to include evacuation in the event of conflict.
- Listen to government updates and account for potential disruptions to travel due to evolving measures and announcements.
- Establish contingencies to promote business continuity, including stocking essential goods and ensuring a power supply due to the potential disruptions to such services in the event of an armed escalation or sustained airspace closures.
STANDING BY TO Support
Global Guardian is closely monitoring the situation and can support clients who need assistance with local teams in the area to provide:
- Evacuation planning and execution
- Executive protection
- Secure transportation
- Emergency response
- Intelligence reports
- Risk assessments
Click below to contact Global Guardian's 24/7 Operations Center or call us directly at +1 (703) 566-9463.
