New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, September 10, strongly condemned the Israeli airstrikes on Qatar’s capital, Doha, which resulted in the death of six individuals, including the son of Hamas’s chief ceasefire negotiator. The air raid, launched at 3:46 PM local time, targeted a residential villa complex allegedly used by Hamas leaders.

In a telephonic conversation with Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, PM Modi expressed “deep concern” over the attack and denounced the violation of Qatar’s sovereignty.

“India condemns the violation of the sovereignty of the brotherly State of Qatar. We support resolution of issues through dialogue and diplomacy and call for avoiding escalation. India stands firmly in support of peace and stability in the region and against terrorism in all its forms,” PM Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter).

The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) issued a statement noting that Modi appreciated Qatar’s mediation efforts in Gaza to achieve a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages.

Sheikh Tamim thanked PM Modi for India’s expression of solidarity with Qatar and its people. Both leaders also reviewed the progress in the India-Qatar Strategic Partnership and reiterated their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.

Eyewitnesses reported several loud explosions and smoke billowing from the targeted neighbourhood, which houses diplomats, foreign dignitaries, embassies, schools, and a daycare centre.

According to Qatar’s interior ministry, Qatari officer Badr Saad Mohammed al-Humaidi al-Dosari, Hamas negotiator Hamam Khalil al-Hayya’s son, and bodyguard Mumen Hassoun were among the dead. Hamas later confirmed the deaths of three more individuals, including Jihad Labad, the director of Khalil al-Hayya’s office, along with two additional bodyguards.

The incident has escalated tensions in the region, prompting renewed calls from India and the international community for restraint and peaceful resolution through diplomacy.