Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has explicitly stated that he does not rule out further strikes on Hamas leaders, signaling a continued aggressive posture in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. This follows a recent Israeli airstrike on September 9, 2025, targeting senior Hamas figures in Doha, Qatar—a significant and rare move outside the immediate Gaza conflict zone.
The strike in Qatar was aimed at prominent Hamas leaders reportedly engaged in discussions regarding a U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal facilitated by Qatar and Egypt. Netanyahu justified the operation as fully warranted, asserting these leaders orchestrated and instigated the deadly October 7, 2023, attacks against Israel. Despite the attack, Hamas claimed its senior exiled leaders survived, though six individuals, including five low-level Hamas members and a Qatari security guard, reportedly died in the strike. The operation, involving 15 Israeli fighter jets and multiple munitions, marked a sharp escalation in Israel’s campaign against Hamas leadership beyond Gaza’s borders.
In a joint press conference held on September 15, 2025, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Netanyahu emphasized that Hamas leaders would have no sanctuary “wherever they are,” underscoring Israel’s intent to continue targeting them globally if necessary. He expressed that every country has the right “to protect itself beyond its borders.” Rubio supported the stance, highlighting strong U.S.-Gulf cooperation, even as the U.S. administration reassured Qatar that such actions would not be repeated on its soil—an indication of the diplomatic sensitivity surrounding the strike in a U.S.-ally country.
The operation sparked widespread condemnation. Qatar called the Israeli attack “cowardly and treacherous,” viewing it as a violation of international norms, while an urgent Arab-Islamic summit convened in Doha aimed to show solidarity with Qatar and caution against Israeli actions that threaten regional coexistence and normalization efforts. The strike has strained regional diplomacy and complicated ceasefire efforts, which are critical given the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the presence of hostages, with about 20 believed to be alive in Gaza.
Netanyahu’s directive for the Mossad intelligence service to actively target Hamas leaders worldwide reflects a broader strategy now openly declared by Israeli defense officials, indicating no limits on the geographical scope of Israel’s campaign against Hamas leadership. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant described all Hamas leaders as “walking dead,” signaling relentless pursuit beyond Gaza.
Experts suggest Netanyahu’s gambit is aimed at achieving what he calls “total victory,” following nearly two years of conflict since the Hamas attack in October 2023. However, the failed elimination of Hamas’s senior exiled leaders in the Qatar strike, coupled with widespread international criticism, complicates Israel’s diplomatic standing and risks further destabilization in the region. The hard-line Israeli coalition continues to push for expanding military operations, while military and public opinion show signs of strain.
Real-Life Impact and Insights
The strike and Netanyahu’s stance have intensified fears of escalating violence and diminishing prospects for peace. Civilians in Gaza continue to endure severe hardships amid heavy Israeli military operations. The international community remains divided, with some countries condemning Israel’s extraterritorial strikes as violations of sovereignty, while others back Israel’s right to self-defense against an armed group responsible for recurring attacks.
Observers warn that additional strikes could inflame regional tensions further, possibly drawing in neighboring states or non-state actors. The upcoming days are crucial as diplomatic actors seek to navigate these dangerous waters while humanitarian concerns mount.
Summary and Next Steps
Netanyahu’s refusal to rule out further strikes on Hamas leaders globally signals a continuation and possible escalation of Israel’s military campaign against the group. The recent strike in Qatar, while only partially successful in hitting intended targets, demonstrates Israel’s willingness to extend its reach. Regional diplomatic repercussions are significant, with Arab states calling for restraint and international norms being challenged. The ongoing conflict’s trajectory depends heavily on future military actions, diplomatic negotiations, and efforts to manage a fragile humanitarian crisis.
Readers should watch for updates on further Israeli military actions, responses from Hamas and regional actors, and any shifts in U.S. and international mediation efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire or de-escalation in the conflict.
