Israel launched an attack in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday, with the primary target being Khalil al-Hayya, a senior Hamas leader. Al-Hayya plays a crucial role in the strategic and political decision-making of Hamas. Israeli authorities confirmed that the attack aimed at al-Hayya and other key figures, although the Hamas negotiation team present in Doha escaped the assault.
Al-Hayya’s influence grew following the deaths of Ismail Haniyeh and Yahya Sinwar. He now holds a prominent position in the five-member leadership council established by Hamas. He is recognized as the most influential leader within the organization, acting as its international voice. Khalil al-Hayya, born in Gaza in 1960, has a history marked by struggle. He has experienced the pain of losing loved ones in Israeli attacks, including his son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. His family was significantly impacted by the 2007 and 2014 Gaza wars. Al-Hayya has been arrested by Israeli security forces several times.