New York: The State of Qatar has emphasized the urgent necessity to restart dialogue to implement the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip to bring an end to the ongoing conflict. Her Excellency Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, made this statement during the quarterly open debate meeting of the Security Council on the Middle-East situation, including the question of Palestine, held at the United Nations headquarters.
According to Qatar News Agency, Sheikha Alya highlighted the catastrophic humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip, exacerbated by the resumed hostilities. She condemned the resumption of Israeli aggression, viewing it as a blatant challenge to international efforts for peace, referencing the ceasefire agreement reached through the efforts of Egypt and the United States in January.
Sheikha Alya reiterated Qatar's strong opposition to Israeli attacks on civilian sites, including hospitals and schools. She condemned the bombing of the Baptist Hospital as a brutal act against unarmed civilians, violating international humanitarian law. Qatar also denounced Israel's decision to halt humanitarian aid and cut electricity to Gaza, calling it a violation of the ceasefire agreement and international law, urging the international community to ensure safe, continuous humanitarian access to the region.
The representative also criticized Israeli plans for displacing Palestinians and expanding settlements, actions seen as violations of international humanitarian law and disregard for international resolutions, particularly Security Council Resolution 2334. She emphasized Qatar's rejection of moves to undermine UNRWA and condemned the closure of UNRWA schools in East Jerusalem, labeling it a crime against children's right to education.
Sheikha Alya condemned the Israeli Minister of National Security's actions at Al Aqsa Mosque and plans by Israeli organizations that threaten the mosque's sanctity. Qatar reaffirmed its refusal to alter the historical and legal status of Jerusalem's holy sites, calling for urgent international action to protect these sites.
The statement also condemned Israeli military actions in Syria and Lebanon, urging adherence to ceasefire agreements and withdrawal of occupation forces from Lebanese territories. Qatar expressed its firm support for Lebanon and the Lebanese people.
In conclusion, Sheikha Alya reaffirmed Qatar's steadfast support for the Palestinian cause and the two-state solution, advocating for an independent Palestinian state based on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. She noted Qatar's involvement in international efforts for a peaceful resolution, including a conference co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France scheduled for next June.