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| Foto:Defence Security Asia |
VISTORBELITUNG.COM, Date: September 14, 2025 Sources:The Wall Street Journal, BBC, Haaretz, Defence Security Asia, and others.On September 9, 2025, Israel launched an unprecedented airstrike against Hamas leadership in Doha, Qatar. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, this operation was carried out by 12 Israeli fighter jets flying over the Northern Red Sea, consisting of 8 F-15s and 4 F-35s, which launched air-launched ballistic missiles towards Qatar through Saudi Arabian airspace. This attack not only killed six people, including a Qatari security officer and five Hamas members, but also shook regional stability and raised questions about the reliability of Qatar's sophisticated air defense system.
Technology and Strategy of the Israeli Attack Operation Use of F-15 and F-35 Jets in Long-Range Missions,Israel utilized 8 F-15 jets and 4 F-35 jets to cover the approximately 1,500 km distance from the Red Sea to the target in Doha. These jets avoided the airspace of surrounding Arab nations by flying a complex route and leveraging stealth technology.
The F-35I "Adir", a special variant for Israel, is equipped with electronic warfare systems and stealth capabilities that allow it to penetrate air defenses undetected. This jet has been used in previous combat operations, including the war in Gaza.
Air-Launched Ballistic Missiles The missiles were launched from over the Red Sea and crossed Saudi Arabian airspace before hitting the target in Doha. Reports indicate that the missiles were a type of air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM) capable of traveling long distances with high precision.
This technology allows Israel to strike targets without having to enter Qatari airspace, reducing the risk of their jets being detected or shot down.
Effectiveness of Qatar's Air Defense System Qatar possesses advanced air defense systems, including Patriot PAC-3, NASAMS, and modern fighter jets such as Rafale, Typhoon, and F-15QA. However, none of these systems managed to detect or prevent the attack.
This failure raises questions about possible electronic suppression by Israel or even tacit US involvement, as the US has a military base in Al-Udeid, Qatar.
Political and Diplomatic Impact and International Reaction and Condemnation
Qatar condemned the attack as a "violation of international law" and "state terrorism". Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, stated that this attack was a betrayal of Qatar's role as a peace mediator.
The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting to discuss the attack, with many countries condemning Israel for violating Qatar's sovereignty.
The US, a close ally of both Israel and Qatar, stated that this attack "does not support US or Israeli objectives" but also called the elimination of Hamas a "worthy goal".
Impact on the Peace Process
· This attack occurred while Hamas leaders were discussing the latest ceasefire proposal from the US. Israel accused the group of using Qatar as a base to plan attacks.
· Qatar has been a key mediator between Israel and Hamas, and this attack threatens Qatar's diplomatic role and regional stability.
Crisis of Confidence among Gulf States
· This attack shook the confidence of Gulf states in US protection. Qatar and other countries questioned the extent to which the US can be relied upon to protect their sovereignty.
· Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and others condemned the attack and are considering a collective response, including through the Arab-Islamic Summit scheduled for September 15 in Doha.
Table: Summary of the Israeli Strike Operation in Doha
Operation Aspect Detail
Date of Attack September 9, 2025
Aircraft Type 8 F-15s and 4 F-35s
Missile Type Air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM)
Distance Covered ±1,500 km from the Red Sea to Doha
Route Crossed Saudi Arabian airspace
Fatalities 6 people (1 Qatari officer, 5 Hamas members)
Target Hamas leaders, including Khalil al-Hayya
International Reaction Condemnation from the UN, Qatar, US, and Arab countries
Implications for Regional Security and the Future
1. Regional Conflict Escalation
· This attack could trigger a wider escalation of the conflict, with militant groups potentially retaliating against Israel or US interests in the region.
· Israel has launched similar attacks against targets in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Iran in recent months, showing a worrying pattern of cross-border operations.
2. Shift in Gulf States' Defense Strategies
· Gulf states, including Qatar, may reevaluate their defense strategies and invest in more autonomous systems to reduce dependence on the US.
· The failure of Qatar's air defense system questions the effectiveness of imported weapon systems without proper integration with national defense capabilities.
3. Future of Mediation and Diplomacy
· Qatar's role as a mediator may diminish, while other countries like Egypt or the UAE may take on a larger role.
· This attack could also complicate peace efforts between Israel and Palestine, with Hamas insisting that the attack demonstrates Israel's bad faith.
Israel's strike operation in Doha is not just about targeting Hamas, but also about a paradigm shift in regional security and diplomacy. The use of air-launched ballistic missiles from a long distance demonstrates Israel's superior technological capabilities, while the failure of Qatar's air defense exposes the vulnerabilities of wealthy nations that rely on imported systems. The long-term impact of this attack will continue to shape Middle Eastern dynamics, with the potential for further escalation and shifts in strategic alliances.