Doha: Qatar and Egypt have reaffirmed their ongoing commitment to mediation efforts aimed at reaching a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, according to the Qatari Foreign Ministry. In a joint statement, the two nations highlighted the continuation of their intensive efforts in the Gaza mediation file, with the objective of ending the conflict, alleviating humanitarian suffering, ensuring the protection of civilians, and securing the exchange of hostages and detainees.
According to Anadolu Agency, the statement noted that 'some progress' had been made during the recent round of intensive negotiations, which lasted three weeks. Both countries emphasized that the current pause in talks for consultations is 'a natural part of the negotiation process, given the complexity of the issues involved.' They urged all parties and media outlets not to be influenced by 'leaks' circulated in certain media, which they stated do not reflect the reality of the negotiations.
The two mediators called on international media organizations to act responsibly, upholding journalistic ethics by focusing on the humanitarian suffering in Gaza rather than undermining diplomatic efforts. Qatar and Egypt reiterated their joint commitment, in partnership with the US, to continue working until a comprehensive ceasefire agreement is reached in the Gaza Strip.
Negotiations in Doha were interrupted when the US and Israel recalled their teams for consultations after a response from Hamas to the latest truce proposal. US envoy Steve Witkoff stated, 'We have decided to bring our team home from Doha for consultations after the latest response from Hamas, which clearly shows a lack of desire to reach a ceasefire in Gaza.' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also remarked that 'Hamas is the obstacle to a hostage release deal,' a claim rejected by the Palestinian group.
Tel Aviv estimates that of the approximately 250 Israeli hostages taken by Hamas, 50 remain in Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive. In contrast, over 10,000 Palestinians are detained in Israeli prisons, facing harsh conditions according to both Palestinian and Israeli reports. Since October 2023, Israel has reportedly killed more than 59,700 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, in the Gaza Strip. The military campaign has severely damaged the enclave, causing the health system to collapse and leading to widespread hunger and starvation.