Qatar and the U.S. Prepare for Next Phase of Gaza Agreement Amid Diplomatic Talks
Sheikh Mohammed stated that the meeting, scheduled for this Friday, will discuss the transition to the second phase of the agreement that came into effect on October 10 of last year. He emphasized the urgent need to establish a civilian administration for the Palestinians in Gaza and noted that stability forces in the region must protect the agreement impartially, highlighting that several key elements of the agreement remain unresolved.
The Qatari Prime Minister pointed out that ongoing Israeli violations threaten the stability of the agreement and stressed the importance of safeguarding the ceasefire and facilitating unconditional humanitarian aid to ensure continued peace.
Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State praised Qatar's contribution to supporting U.S. goals in the Middle East and Africa, reaffirming the strategic partnership between the two nations and their close collaboration in economic and security matters. Senator Marco Rubio emphasized during the meeting the commitment of both the United States and Qatar to strengthen their strategic dialogue, which began its seventh round in Washington.
This development is part of the second phase of the agreement, which, according to President Donald Trump's 20-point plan, includes the release of all Israeli prisoners held by Hamas and the establishment of a peace council with executive powers and international stability forces, alongside the withdrawal of Israeli troops to a designated boundary, disarmament in Gaza, destruction of tunnels, and the formation of a Palestinian technocratic government.
Sheikh Mohammed also addressed the Syrian situation, reiterating Qatar's support for the territorial integrity of Syria and advocating for the lifting of sanctions against Damascus to aid its economic recovery. This comes after the U.S. Senate voted today to lift sanctions under the Caesar Act against Syria, following President Biden's decision last June to end a series of economic sanctions.
