1st LD: Israel says it struck Hamas headquarters in Doha, Qatar condemns attack

JERUSALEM/DOHA, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Israel's military said on Tuesday that explosions heard in Doha were the result of airstrikes targeting Hamas headquarters in the Qatari capital, in what it described as an attempt to assassinate senior Hamas leaders.

Eyewitnesses heard blasts and saw plumes of smoke rising in the city earlier in the day. No casualties have been reported.

Qatar's Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the attack, calling it a serious threat to the security of Qatari citizens and residents.

"Qatar will not tolerate such actions that endanger its security and sovereignty," the ministry said, adding that investigations were underway and further details would be announced.

Security forces and civil defense units moved quickly to contain the incident and ensure the safety of residents, it added.

Hamas has not yet commented on the strike.

Qatar has long acted as a mediator in ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas. Doha hosts Hamas's political bureau, including several senior leaders, and has played a key role in facilitating humanitarian aid to Gaza during the war.

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