Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, calls for the full implementation of the Gaza ceasefire agreement and expects a binding UN resolution. The ceasefire deal involves a series of phases, including humanitarian aid and prisoner exchanges. Additionally, Sheikh Mohammed aims to enhance relations with Syria and lift sanctions, condemning Israeli incursions in the Golan Heights.
In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the Prime Minister of Qatar, emphasized the necessity of fully implementing the initial phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. He expressed hope that the subsequent phase will culminate in a definitive resolution. The Prime Minister anticipates a binding resolution from the United Nations Security Council to enforce the ceasefire agreement.
On Wednesday, it was announced by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States that Hamas and Israel reached a multi-phased deal aimed at ceasing hostilities in Gaza. This agreement includes provisions for the exchange of Israeli captives held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody, commencing with a ceasefire effective from Sunday. The first phase spans seven weeks and entails increased humanitarian aid, a gradual retreat of Israeli forces, and the release of captives.
Al Jazeera correspondent Stefanie Dekker reported from Amman, Jordan, that the Israeli cabinet plans to ratify the ceasefire agreement on Friday. Sheikh Mohammed acknowledged the crucial roles played by Qatar and Egypt as mediators in the ceasefire negotiations, noting that both the outgoing Biden administration and members of incoming President-elect Donald Trump’s team were instrumental in reaching this agreement. However, he clarified that the governance of Gaza post-war remains a Palestinian matter.
The Prime Minister further emphasized the importance of mobilizing international support for Gaza and facilitating aid delivery mechanisms to prevent exploitation. Alongside the Gaza ceasefire discussions, Qatar aims to strengthen relations with the new Syrian administration led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, who recently led the opposition to topple Bashar al-Assad’s long-standing regime.
While meeting with al-Sharaa in Damascus, Sheikh Mohammed called for the lifting of sanctions imposed on Syria, asserting that these sanctions were illogical now that the regime has changed. He expressed that such restrictions hinder the new administration’s ability to address its people’s needs. Concurrently, he condemned Israeli encroachments near the Golan Heights, affirming the necessity for Israeli withdrawal from these contested areas to avoid altering established realities.
This article discusses the recent developments surrounding the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, facilitated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. The Prime Minister of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, articulates the expectations for both the immediate and subsequent phases of the agreement, emphasizing international cooperation and humanitarian support for Gaza. Additionally, the article touches upon Qatar’s diplomatic endeavors in Syria and its stance against sanctions on the new government post-Assad.
In conclusion, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani reiterated the crucial need for full implementation of the Gaza ceasefire, with expectations for a binding UN resolution. The multi-phased plan marks a significant step toward peace, with careful monitoring necessary for continued humanitarian access. Moreover, Qatar’s advocacy for lifting sanctions on Syria highlights its role in regional diplomacy, while its opposition to Israeli actions in the Golan Heights underscores an ongoing commitment to sovereignty and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
