Doha:Qatar and France have jointly called for Israel to withdraw from Gaza under agreed ceasefire conditions and to cease its settlement policies in the West Bank. This call was made during discussions between Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and French President Emmanuel Macron as part of Macron's tour of the Gulf region.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, the two nations released a joint statement via Qatar's Foreign Ministry emphasizing their opposition to any annexation of the occupied West Bank. They urged the cessation of Israeli settlement activities and violence by settlers, and highlighted the necessity of fully implementing the Gaza ceasefire, including the withdrawal of Israeli forces under agreed terms and the delivery of humanitarian aid.
Additionally, Qatar and France reiterated their support for a two-state solution alongside Palestinian elections. They also addressed concerns regarding Iran, condemning Iranian military actions in the region and advocating for a diplomatic resolution to ensure Tehran's nuclear program remains peaceful.
The statement further noted both countries' support for the restoration of free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, without fees, and acknowledged France's commendation of Qatar's mediation efforts to alleviate regional tensions. On Lebanon, they backed the complete execution of the tripartite framework agreement to restore Lebanese sovereignty, disarm Hezbollah, and secure an Israeli withdrawal, cautioning against a security void following the end of the UN peacekeeping mission's mandate.
For Syria, Qatar and France expressed their willingness to support stabilization and economic recovery projects in collaboration with Syrian authorities. Beyond regional issues, the two countries aimed to enhance their defense, security, and economic cooperation.
President Macron's regional tour, which included visits to Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia, was intended to reinforce strategic and economic partnerships and promote efforts to restore regional stability and ensure free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.