Israel's surprise attack in Qatar on Tuesday targeting Hamas' top political leaders was the latest in a campaign aimed at hunting down Israel's top enemies since the 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel.

But while Israel considers Tehran and Beirut fair game, it had refrained from striking Hamas’ political office in Qatar, a key mediator in the war and a U.S. ally.

It is the first time Israel has targeted the Hamas leadership in Qatar - the attacks have attracted widespread condemnation

Pope Leo made a "strong appeal" to the global community on Wednesday to end the nearly two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas, calling for a permanent ceasefire, the release of hostages held in Gaza and the provision of humanitarian aid.

The visit comes at a moment of high tension for the longtime allies following Israel’s attempted assassination of Hamas leaders on Qatari soil earlier this week.