Doha: Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani engaged in discussions with outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken regarding the implementation of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip and the ongoing developments in Syria. The conversation took place through a phone call between Al Thani, who also serves as Qatar's prime minister, and Blinken.
According to Anadolu Agency, a statement from the Qatari Foreign Ministry outlined that the discussions centered on ensuring the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, the exchange of prisoners and hostages, and recent developments in Syria. The talks also focused on the strategic relations between Qatar and the United States and explored ways to support and enhance these ties.
Al Thani expressed Qatar's hope that all parties involved would adhere to the ceasefire agreement, emphasizing the significance of exchanging prisoners and hostages to maintain peace. Meanwhile, Blinken acknowledged Qatar's crucial role and its ongoing efforts that contributed to the formation of the agreement.
The Gaza ceasefire agreement came into effect on Sunday at 11:15 a.m. local time (0915GMT), following a brief delay attributed to Israel's accusations against Hamas for postponing the release of a list of captives set for release. Since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, local health authorities report that nearly 47,000 people have been killed and over 110,700 injured, primarily affecting women and children. The Israeli offensive has also resulted in over 11,000 individuals reported missing, and has led to extensive destruction and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
In November of the previous year, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is currently facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice concerning its actions in the enclave.