Doha: The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs announced that Hamas is prepared to release hostages in exchange for several prisoners, as negotiations on Gaza continue. His Excellency detailed that Qatar's decision to suspend its role in negotiations last November was a response to perceived blackmail against the country. However, Qatar's diplomatic efforts had previously facilitated the first ceasefire agreement in January.
According to Qatar News Agency, His Excellency addressed the challenges in assessing the seriousness of the negotiating parties, though he noted some progress during recent meetings compared to earlier discussions. The Prime Minister emphasized that Israel's focus remains on the hostage issue without a clear strategy for war termination, which hampers the likelihood of reaching a comprehensive agreement. Despite these challenges, Qatar is committed to seeking common ground with its partners.
During a visit to the United States, His Excellency engaged in productive discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. The discussions led to a consensus to continue striving for expanded common ground among the negotiating parties. Additionally, His Excellency's talks with the Turkish Foreign Minister aimed to enhance coordination between Qatar and Turkiye on a variety of issues, including developments in the Gaza Strip and the broader region.
The Prime Minister expressed optimism that these dialogues could lead to practical measures for improving regional stability. He highlighted recent meetings with Turkish officials at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum as part of the Arab-Islamic Committee's focus on the Gaza conflict. Today's discussions with the Turkish Foreign Minister built upon previous meetings, exploring ways for Qatar, Turkiye, and regional partners to work towards ending the war and lifting the blockade on Gaza.
His Excellency also welcomed Syria's steps towards state restructuring and fostering unity among Syrian parties, which he believes will contribute to civil peace and development. He reaffirmed Qatar's continued commitment to supporting Syrian peace efforts and reconstruction aligned with the aspirations of the Syrian people.
In discussions with the Turkish Foreign Minister, His Excellency stressed the importance of lifting sanctions on Syria to alleviate the situation. The primary focus of today's talks was the ongoing conflict in Gaza and escalating actions in the West Bank and occupied Jerusalem. Both sides expressed concern over the collapsed ceasefire and ongoing violence affecting millions of Palestinians.
The Prime Minister emphasized the need to intensify international efforts to fully implement the ceasefire agreement, brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. Despite obstacles, Qatar remains dedicated to advancing the Gaza ceasefire agreement's second phase, aiming for the release of hostages, a permanent cessation of hostilities, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.
Qatar strongly opposes the starvation of Palestinians and the use of humanitarian aid as a war tool. His Excellency called for international pressure on Israel to open border crossings for essential supplies into Gaza.