Israel today launched airstrikes in Qatar, with Israeli military officials bragging about their attempted assassination of Hamas leadership officials, who were in Doha to discuss a US-drafted ceasefire proposal for Gaza. According to reports, Washington was notified in advance of the Israeli attack and gave its approval. While the Hamas leadership officials survived the attack, five other Hamas members and a Qatari security official were reportedly killed. Nearly two years into Israel’s assault on Gaza, which has killed close to 65,000 Palestinians since October 2023, Qatar has been indispensable to diplomatic efforts. For Qatar, the lesson is clear: hosting talks at Washington’s request does not shield you from Israeli firepower.