Doha: Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Majid bin Mohammed Al Ansari, confirmed that Qatar is actively working with mediation partners to hasten the second phase of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip. He described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as a "man-made, not a natural disaster," emphasizing the urgency for progress.

According to Qatar News Agency, Dr. Al Ansari highlighted during a Ministry of Foreign Affairs' briefing that delays in aid and reconstruction material entry, alongside the postponed opening of the Rafah crossing, are exacerbating casualties in Gaza. He declared that leveraging humanitarian aid as a negotiation tool is unacceptable.

Qatar, in coordination with its partners, is striving to expedite the delivery and passage of aid through the Rafah crossing as part of the agreement's second phase. Dr. Al Ansari reiterated Qatar's stance for the unimpeded flow of aid into Gaza and underscored the international community's responsibility.

He elaborated on Qatar's mediation efforts with Egypt and the USA, noting significant strides in the agreement's first phase. Dr. Al Ansari urged the international community to press all parties towards the second phase, as existing obstacles should not hinder its execution.

Addressing regional security, Al Ansari assured that Qatar prioritizes the safety of its citizens and residents, taking necessary precautions amid regional tensions. He emphasized Qatar's commitment to peaceful conflict resolutions, warning against military escalations.

On Iran, Dr. Al Ansari mentioned recent intensive contacts involving Qatari officials and the Iranian Foreign Minister, expressing Qatar's support for dialogue and peaceful dispute resolutions. He addressed US-imposed tariffs on Iran-trading countries, stressing Qatar's compliance with international sanctions and advocating for diplomatic solutions.

Regarding key diplomatic activities, Dr. Al Ansari discussed the Qatar-Japan Strategic Dialogue and meetings with US officials to strengthen bilateral relations. He also highlighted Qatar's participation in the OIC meeting in Saudi Arabia, condemning Israel's recognition of Somaliland as an independent state and reiterating support for Somalia's sovereignty and the Palestinian cause.

Dr. Al Ansari concluded with details of recent meetings involving Qatari and international officials, reinforcing Qatar's commitment to addressing regional challenges through dialogue and cooperation.