Qatar Urges Swift Progress in Gaza Ceasefire Talks, Calls for International Support

Doha, The Gulf Observer: Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, has emphasized the urgency of commencing the second phase of Gaza ceasefire negotiations, as outlined in the agreement. Speaking at a joint press conference with Turkish Foreign Minister H.E. Dr. Hakan Fidan, he stated that discussions with relevant parties had begun, though details on delegation participation and scheduling remain unclear.

Sheikh Mohammed stressed the importance of advancing negotiations to secure an agreement before the 42-day deadline of the ceasefire’s first phase. He urged international partners to exert pressure to ensure the success of the negotiations and to prevent any party from obstructing the process, warning that the current diplomatic window is critical and irreplaceable.

He reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to working alongside Egypt and the United States to fully implement the ceasefire agreement. On the broader Gaza crisis, he underscored the necessity of ending the occupation and establishing a Palestinian state within the June 4, 1967, borders in accordance with international resolutions. He also praised Turkiye’s role in supporting mediation efforts that led to the ceasefire deal.

Regarding humanitarian aid, the Qatari Prime Minister called for intensified regional and international efforts to facilitate the entry of essential supplies into Gaza, warning against attempts to render the enclave uninhabitable for Palestinians. He reaffirmed Qatar’s firm stance against the forced displacement of Palestinians, addressing concerns over recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump on potential resettlement.

On Syria, Sheikh Mohammed reiterated Qatar’s commitment to supporting Syria’s stability and rebuilding efforts. He emphasized the need to lift sanctions, which he argued exacerbate the humanitarian crisis, and expressed support for steps aimed at restructuring the Syrian state and fostering national unity.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan commended the strong and multifaceted relations between Qatar and Turkiye, highlighting their shared commitment to regional stability. He reiterated Turkiye’s priority of sustaining the Gaza ceasefire without violations and ensuring unhindered humanitarian aid access. Fidan also called for lifting international sanctions on Syria and integrating armed groups under a unified national structure to restore peace and security.

Both ministers reaffirmed their countries’ dedication to diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving regional conflicts and promoting sustainable peace.