Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent airstrike targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar appears to have failed, escalating tensions with Qatar and straining ties with the U.S. The strike, aimed at exiled Hamas officials meeting over a U.S. ceasefire proposal, killed five low-level Hamas members and a Qatari security guard, but Hamas claims its senior leaders survived.

The attack has drawn sharp criticism across the Arab world, disrupted ongoing ceasefire negotiations, and threatened the safety of 20 hostages still believed alive in Gaza. While Netanyahu faces international backlash, he remains resolute, backed by his hard-line coalition, and has vowed further action if Hamas leadership continues to operate from Qatar.

Experts say the failed strike undercuts Netanyahu’s vision of “total victory” over Hamas, complicates efforts to secure a ceasefire, and risks alienating Israeli citizens seeking an end to the war. Despite this, Netanyahu’s political position remains secure, with his coalition’s support outweighing public opposition.

Israel continues its offensive in Gaza City, urging evacuation of around one million residents ahead of a planned invasion. The Trump administration has expressed unhappiness over the strike but has not indicated steps to pressure Israel to halt the war.