The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned Tuesday’s Israeli airstrike in Doha, Qatar, which targeted senior Hamas leaders. Abuja described the action as a violation of international law and a serious threat to regional peace.
The strike, which occurred during a meeting on a US-backed Gaza ceasefire proposal, killed six people — including the son of senior Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya, his office director, three bodyguards, and a Qatari security officer. Hamas leaders reportedly survived the attack.
Qatar, which hosts the region’s largest US military base at Al Udeid, has been a key mediator in truce negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
In a statement on Wednesday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa emphasized the importance of respecting sovereignty and international law.
“This development raises serious questions about regional stability and the prospects for ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” the statement read.
The Nigerian government acknowledged Qatar’s longstanding role in fostering dialogue and urged all parties to “exercise maximum restraint, avoid escalation, and recommit to peaceful engagement.” It also extended condolences to the victims and reaffirmed support for efforts promoting de-escalation and durable peace.
Nigeria further pledged to continue working with the international community, including the United Nations, to advance peace, security, and the rule of law in the Middle East and beyond.
The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian war, which began in October 2023 after Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel that killed over 1,200 people and led to more than 200 hostages, has since escalated into a prolonged conflict. Israel’s military response has devastated Gaza, with at least 64,656 people reported killed, including 404 who died from starvation. Thousands more remain trapped under rubble and are presumed dead.
