In a new wave of the conflict, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) hit Tayba II Tower, a residential high-rise near the Rimal neighborhood in Gaza City 🏙️. The building was destroyed in what the IDF called a strike against Hamas surveillance equipment hidden inside.
Residents had less than an hour to evacuate after a warning in Arabic from military spokesperson Avichay Adraee on X 🚨.
'Fire Summit' and the Qatar Operation
Defense Minister Israel Katz revealed that Tuesday's failed attempt to eliminate senior Hamas leaders in Qatar—codenamed 'Fire Summit'—was part of a broader push to dismantle the group's top command. "Israel's long arm will act against its enemies everywhere," Katz said, pledging to chase all those involved in the October 7 attack.
Regional Ripples
The strike in Qatar sent shockwaves through ceasefire talks. Qatar has suspended negotiations, calling the move a "pivotal moment." The White House said former U.S. President Donald Trump did not back the raid, warning Qatar in advance, though Doha claims it received no real notice.
Meanwhile, Israel's UN ambassador, Danny Danon, stressed: "It was not an attack on Qatar; it was an attack on Hamas."
International Reactions
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen warned she'll push to sanction extremist Israeli ministers and curb trade ties over the humanitarian toll. Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar fired back on X, saying Europe's stance "strengthens Hamas and the radical axis in the Middle East."
Human Cost
Gaza health authorities report over 64,000 killed so far, with large swaths of the enclave in rubble and residents facing acute food shortages. As both sides dig in, the question remains: how will this chapter unfold? 🌍
Reference(s):
Israel strikes Gaza tower, vows to pursue Hamas after Qatar attack
cgtn.com
