Doha: Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman declared on Friday that Qatar will persist in its humanitarian and diplomatic efforts toward the Palestinian people. His remarks coincided with the commencement of the first phase of a Gaza ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which took effect at 12 noon local time (0900 GMT). This truce was brokered through mediation by Trkiye, Qatar, Egypt, and the US.

According to Anadolu Agency, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized Qatar's commitment on the US social media platform X, stating, "As the first phase of the ceasefire agreement comes into force, we affirm that Qatar will spare no effort in a manner that reflects its humanitarian, historical, and diplomatic duty toward the Palestinian brothers and the region." He further noted the collective responsibility to ensure the successful implementation of the ceasefire and the achievement of peace and stability.

Meanwhile, the Israeli army initiated the first stage of its phased withdrawal from Gaza on Friday. The pullout is expected to be completed within 24 hours, aligning with the locations specified in US President Donald Trump's plan to resolve the conflict in the Palestinian enclave, as reported by Israeli media.

The agreement under Trump's plan includes the release of 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and 1,700 individuals detained in Gaza since October 2023, in exchange for the liberation of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas.