Doha: Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari, confirmed that indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas are underway in Doha, with the aim of bridging the gap between the parties regarding the negotiation framework that precedes actual negotiations.
According to Qatar News Agency, during a weekly press briefing organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Al Ansari noted that the Palestinian and Israeli delegations are in Doha, engaging in separate discussions to create a conducive environment for agreement on key issues. He emphasized that it is too early to draw conclusions from these ongoing negotiations, highlighting the active engagement of both parties.
Dr. Al Ansari expressed Qatar's appreciation for U.S. support, acknowledging the continuous efforts of Qatari and Egyptian mediation teams in Doha to establish an appropriate negotiation framework. He reiterated Qatar's firm stance against the displacement of the Palestinian people, calling on the international community to uphold the consensus against forced displacement.
He explained that it is premature to predict the outcome or timeline of these negotiations but noted positive engagement from both sides. The ultimate goal, he stated, is to end the war and humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, with mediation efforts focused on achieving this aim.
The discussions are centered around a proposed truce, its conditions, and guarantees for positive outcomes, potentially leading to resumed negotiations for a final resolution. Dr. Al Ansari highlighted the supportive statements by U.S. President Donald Trump and emphasized the importance of joint mediation efforts with the U.S. and Egypt.
Dr. Al Ansari also welcomed the potential visit of U.S. President's envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, as a means to support ongoing consultations in Doha. He stressed the importance of confidentiality and continued engagement to reach a final agreement, noting that ground escalations complicate mediation efforts.
He addressed media leaks and their potential to influence negotiation positions, underscoring Qatar's commitment to maintaining the negotiation process's integrity. Dr. Al Ansari highlighted the significance of the Tipperary International Peace Award received by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, recognizing Qatar's diplomatic role in peace negotiations in various regions.
He further noted that Sheikh Mohammed's acceptance speech praised the leadership of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and reaffirmed Qatar's commitment to advancing peace efforts. Dr. Al Ansari detailed recent international engagements by Qatari officials, including meetings in Ireland, Italy, Egypt, Bulgaria, and Venezuela, focusing on regional developments and cooperation.