Khalil Al-Hayya’s First Public Appearance After Assassination Attempt in Qatar

Khalil Al-Hayya, a senior leader of the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) and head of its negotiating team, appeared in front of media cameras for the first time since an Israeli airstrike targeted him in Doha, Qatar. The attack, which took place on September 9, 2025, aimed to assassinate top Hamas leaders during a meeting to discuss a U.S.-proposed ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

In a video broadcast by a Qatari network, Al-Hayya spoke about the loss of his son, Hamam Al-Hayya, who was killed in the Israeli airstrike. He also mourned the death of his office manager and several companions who were martyred in the attack.

Al-Hayya stated, “I do not differentiate between my children and any Palestinian child in Gaza who is killed by the occupier. We pray that their blood will lead to victory, Jerusalem, and the liberation of Gaza.”

He praised the resilience and sacrifices of the people of Gaza, saying, “Today, Gaza represents the Islamic Ummah with its unparalleled sacrifices, patience, and dedication, bearing the heavy burden of the Palestinian cause.”

The Israeli airstrike targeted residential buildings in Doha where senior Hamas political leaders were meeting. While several members of the Hamas delegation and a Qatari security officer were killed, top Hamas leaders survived the attack.

Following the incident, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized to Qatar for violating its airspace during a phone call with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Netanyahu pledged that Israel would not target Qatar in the future.