Israeli Airstrike Targets Top Hamas Leaders in Qatar

**Hamas** is a Sunni Islamist Palestinian nationalist organization that functions both as a political party and a militant group, primarily operating in the Gaza Strip, which it has governed since 2007. Founded in 1987 by Ahmed Yassin amid the First Intifada, Hamas emerged from the Muslim Brotherhood and initially had covert Israeli support as a counterweight to the secular Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO)[3][1]. It combines political governance with an armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, committed to armed resistance against Israel, which it refuses to recognize as a legitimate state[1][3]. Hamas’s political rise culminated in a 2006 electoral victory in the Palestinian Legislative Council, campaigning on anti-corruption and resistance platforms. After violently seizing Gaza from the rival Fatah faction in 2007, Hamas has maintained de facto control there despite international isolation and blockades imposed by Israel and Egypt[3]. Its governance has been marked by repeated conflicts with Israel, including major wars in 2008–09, 2012, 2014, 2021, and the ongoing intense conflict triggered by Hamas’s surprise October 2023 attack killing nearly 1,200 Israelis and taking hostages[1][2][3]. Hamas benefits from regional support, especially from Iran, which supplies funding and weapons, as well as financial and political backing from Turkey and Qatar. These alliances form part of a broader "axis of resistance" against Israel, which includes groups like Hezbollah and Palestinian Islamic Jihad[2]. Hamas also operates fundraising networks globally, sometimes using charities as fronts to support its military activities[4]. The group is designated a terrorist organization by many countries, including the United States, which has increased military aid to Israel following recent escalations[2][6]. Despite modifying its 1988 charter in 2017 to soften some language, Hamas continues to reject Israel’s legitimacy and pursues all forms of resistance[1]. Its enduring political

## Overview The Qatari government is the ruling authority of the State of Qatar, structured as a hereditary constitutional emirate under the leadership of the Āl Thānī family[1]. The Emir serves as both head of state and government, holding significant executive, legislative, and, to a large extent, judicial powers[1][7]. While the Emir’s position is hereditary, the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers are appointed by the Emir, and the legislative branch includes a partially elected Advisory Council (Shura Council), though recent constitutional changes have centralized appointment powers with the Emir[1][2]. Political parties are not permitted, and the country’s political system is characterized by limited political participation and centralized decision-making[7]. ## Historical Context Qatar gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1971 and adopted a provisional constitution in 1972, which was replaced by a new constitution approved by referendum in 2003 and enacted in 2005[1][2]. The constitution originally provided for the election of two-thirds of the Shura Council, but elections were repeatedly delayed and, in 2024, a constitutional amendment abolished their election, consolidating the Emir’s authority[1]. Historically, the rise of oil and gas revenues after World War II transformed Qatar’s economy and society, but also led to internal rivalries within the ruling family, resulting in several bloodless coups[1]. ## Key Achievements Qatar has leveraged its hydrocarbon wealth to achieve rapid modernization and global influence. It has become a major player in global energy markets and a diplomatic mediator in regional conflicts. The country hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2022, which accelerated infrastructure development and international visibility[5]. Qatar has also invested heavily in education, healthcare, and technology, with the 2025 budget allocating $5.3 billion to education and $6 billion to health, reflecting a national strategy focused on human capital and innovatio

## Overview The Israeli government is the executive branch of the State of Israel, operating within a parliamentary democracy framework where the Prime Minister serves as head of government and the Knesset (parliament) as the legislative body[1]. The government is responsible for administering national affairs, implementing laws, and setting public policy across domains such as security, economy, technology, and social services. Israel’s political system is characterized by a multi-party structure, frequent elections, and a complex balance of power between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches[1][4]. ## History Israel declared independence in 1948, establishing a government influenced by British parliamentary traditions and Jewish communal governance[4]. Instead of a single written constitution, Israel’s governance is based on a series of Basic Laws, which have constitutional status and cover specific areas such as the Knesset, the Government, and human rights[1][4]. Over decades, the Supreme Court has played a pivotal role in interpreting these laws, often acting as a check on government power[1][4]. ## Key Achievements Israel’s government has overseen rapid economic growth, transforming the country into a global leader in technology and innovation—often dubbed the “Startup Nation.” It has fostered a robust ecosystem for tech startups, venture capital, and multinational R&D centers. The government has also prioritized cybersecurity, renewable energy, and water management, achieving notable success in desalination and agricultural technology. Internationally, Israel maintains strategic partnerships, particularly in defense and technology sectors, and has normalized relations with several Arab states in recent years. ## Current Status As of 2025, the Israeli government faces both domestic and international challenges. Domestically, political fragmentation and legislative efforts to alter the appointment processes for senior civil servants and government companies have sparked debate about the balance between governance and political influence[2]. Public confidence in national leadership stands at 44%, reflecting polarized views amid ongoing security concerns and economic pressures[8]. The

The term **"International Community"** is often used to describe a collective of nations and organizations working together to address global challenges. However, it is not a single organization but rather a concept that encompasses various international organizations, governments, and entities that cooperate on global issues. **What It Does:** - The international community, through organizations like the United Nations (UN), works to promote peace, security, and sustainable development. - It addresses global challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, and human rights violations. - The framework of international law, treaties, and human rights conventions provides a foundation for cooperation among nations. **History:** - The concept of an international community gained prominence with the establishment of the United Nations in 1945, replacing the League of Nations. - Over the years, the international community has evolved to include a wide array of intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). **Key Achievements:** - **Promoting Global Cooperation:** The international community has facilitated significant international cooperation, leading to landmark agreements like the Paris Agreement on climate change. - **Human Rights Advancements:** Efforts by the international community have led to the establishment and enforcement of human rights standards worldwide. - **Economic Development:** Organizations like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund have played crucial roles in global economic development. **Current Status:** - The international community continues to face challenges such as global health crises, economic instability, and conflict resolution. - Despite these challenges, it remains a vital framework for addressing shared global problems. **Notable Aspects:** - **Shared Vision:** The international community is united by a shared vision of a better world, as outlined in the UN Charter. - **Global Governance:** It provides a system of governance that allows nations to work together on issues beyond their individual capacities. - **NGO and IGO Involvement:** NGOs and IGOs play significant roles in implementing and supporting international community initiatives.