Qatar and the U.S. Set to Discuss Next Steps in Gaza Ceasefire Agreement
Sheikh Mohammed indicated that the meeting, scheduled for next Friday, will focus on transitioning to the second phase of the ceasefire, which began on October 10. He underscored the urgent need to establish a Palestinian civil administration in Gaza and emphasized that a stability force must uphold the agreement impartially. He noted that several critical elements of the agreement remain incomplete.
The Qatari Prime Minister expressed concern that ongoing Israeli violations could jeopardize the stability of the ceasefire, highlighting the importance of safeguarding the truce and ensuring the unrestricted flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza to support the continuation of peace.
The U.S. State Department acknowledged Qatar's role in advancing U.S. goals in the Middle East and Africa, reaffirming the strategic partnership between the two nations and their collaboration in economic and security sectors. Senator Marco Rubio emphasized the commitment of both countries to strengthen their strategic dialogue, which is currently in its seventh round in Washington.
This development follows 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, the formation of a peace council with an executive body, the withdrawal of Israeli forces to designated boundaries, disarmament of Gaza, destruction of tunnels, and the establishment of a technocratic Palestinian government.
Sheikh Mohammed also addressed the situation in Syria, reiterating Qatar's support for the territorial integrity of Syria and advocating for the lifting of sanctions on Damascus to aid its economic recovery. This comes after the U.S. Senate's recent vote in favor of repealing the Caesar Act sanctions on Syria, following the President's decision last June to relax several economic sanctions.
