Thu Sep 11 03:20:00 UTC 2025: **Israel Defends Strikes on Hamas in Doha, Escalates Conflict with Houthis in Yemen**

**London/Doha/Sanaa** – Israel’s recent strikes on Doha, Qatar, targeting Hamas leaders, have sparked international condemnation and heightened regional tensions, even while Israel confirmed airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, escalating an already volatile situation.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog defended the Doha operation, claiming it was necessary to remove obstacles to a Gaza ceasefire deal, saying sometimes it’s necessary to remove people who won’t make a deal. However, Qatar’s government is considering holding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responsible for breaking international law. Netanyahu asserts the strikes were justified because they targeted Hamas leaders involved in the October 7th attack. Hamas reports six deaths but denies any leaders were killed.

The UN Security Council has postponed a meeting on the Doha strikes until tomorrow.

Adding to the complexity, Israel conducted airstrikes on Yemen, targeting Houthi military camps, a media headquarters, and fuel storage sites. Houthi authorities report 35 deaths and over 130 injuries, claiming civilian sites were hit. Israel states it targeted military objectives in response to recent Houthi attacks.

The strikes have been widely condemned by the international community and the Iranian officials have claimed they warned other arab countries about normalising relations with Israel. Canada is evaluating its relationship with Israel following the incident. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with President Herzog and while we are yet to hear the results of their discussion, but according to President Herzog the meeting was frank and tough.

The situation remains fluid, with uncertain implications for ceasefire negotiations and regional stability.

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