New york: The State of Qatar has emphasized the collective responsibility required for the successful implementation of the first phase of the agreement to end the war in the Gaza Strip. This initiative aims to achieve a comprehensive cessation of hostilities, promoting peace and stability in the region in alignment with the principles of the Charter and international law.
According to Qatar News Agency, this statement was delivered by HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, during the Quarterly Open Debate of the Security Council on the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question, at the UN headquarters in New York. Her Excellency highlighted the recent Sharm El Sheikh Peace Summit, which took place on October 13, where HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani participated in the signing ceremony of the Gaza peace agreement alongside international leaders.
Her Excellency stressed Qatar's ongoing mediation efforts over the past two years, in collaboration with Egypt and the United States, which led to the agreement despite numerous challenges. These efforts successfully secured humanitarian truces, delivered aid, and facilitated the release of detainees and prisoners, addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Qatar remains dedicated to its role as a mediator and peace-building leader, with its leadership committed to resolving conflicts diplomatically and undertaking humanitarian efforts. The Qatar's Gaza Reconstruction Committee has already begun rebuilding efforts, including clearing rubble, reopening roads, and establishing a land bridge through Jordan and Egypt to deliver essential aid to over 436,000 affected individuals.
Qatar has welcomed the UN General Assembly's adoption of the New York Declaration on implementing the two-state solution, advocating for an independent Palestinian state. Her Excellency acknowledged the leadership roles of Saudi Arabia and France and welcomed the recognition of the State of Palestine by various countries.
Sheikha Alya condemned actions undermining the two-state solution, such as settlement expansion and land appropriation, and called for urgent international intervention. She expressed Qatar's strongest condemnation of Israeli legislative measures imposing sovereignty over the occupied West Bank and criticized plans to construct a settlement severing East Jerusalem from the West Bank.
Her Excellency also reiterated Qatar's support for the sovereignty and stability of Syria and Lebanon, condemning Israeli violations of international law in these regions. She concluded by affirming Qatar's commitment to peacefully resolving disputes through dialogue and mediation, supporting initiatives that promote regional and global peace and security.