Doha: The Palestinian cause has remained a central issue in the hearts and minds of Qataris-both the leadership and the people-since its inception over seventy years ago. Rooted in steadfast principles and deep convictions, Qatar has consistently supported the cause in all forums, using every available means and resource.
According to Qatar News Agency, under the leadership of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the State of Qatar has stood firmly by the Palestinian cause as its primary issue, offering all forms of political, material, and moral support to the brotherly Palestinian people. This support is in defense of the justice of the Palestinian cause and Palestinians' legitimate struggle for freedom and independence. Qatar has consistently called for a fair resolution of the issue in accordance with international legitimacy, within the framework of the Arab Peace Initiative, which guarantees the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem (Al-Quds) as its capital.
The State of Qatar consistently reaffirmed, in every forum and occasion, its firm rejection of any attempts to undermine the Palestinian cause, whether through mass extermination, displacement projects, settlement expansion, or the imposition of solutions that undermine the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
The Palestinian cause has always been present in every speech delivered by HH the Amir at various forums, locally, regionally, and internationally. In his speech during the 53rd ordinary session of the Shura Council, HH the Amir highlighted Qatar's unwavering support for Palestinians and called on the international community to halt Israeli aggression and lift the siege on the Palestinian people. His statements in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) have consistently underscored the justice of the Palestinian cause and the right of its people to freedom and independence.
In a speech at the 79th session of UNGA in September 2024, HH the Amir criticized the international community's failure to confront Israeli intransigence, labeling the ongoing situation in Palestine as a stain on the conscience of global institutions. Emphasizing the need for a two-state solution, the Amir called for immediate cessation of hostilities and an end to the occupation of Arab territories.
Qatar's support extends beyond political and diplomatic avenues, with substantial material aid directed towards the Palestinian people. In January 2024, Qatar launched a land bridge to supply Gaza with fuel, providing 1,250,000 liters daily to power essential services. The State of Qatar has also facilitated medical treatment for wounded Palestinians and evacuated residents holding Qatari residency from Gaza.
Qatar's financial contributions to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) have been significant, with a pledge of over USD 49 million in 2024. In September 2024, Qatar committed an additional USD 100 million to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasizing its support for UNRWA's mission.
Amid worsening conditions in the Gaza Strip post-October 2023, Qatar continued to provide humanitarian aid through an air bridge, delivering 4,766 tons of relief materials. The country's historical support includes the establishment of the Gaza Reconstruction Committee, which has overseen substantial infrastructure projects funded by Qatari grants since 2012.
Qatar's efforts also extend to regional diplomacy, hosting Arab summits and initiatives aimed at Palestinian reconciliation and support for Jerusalem. Significant financial pledges have been made for reconstruction efforts following conflicts in Gaza, further demonstrating Qatar's commitment to the Palestinian cause.
The State of Qatar remains dedicated to achieving a final cessation of hostilities in Gaza, providing aid, and facilitating the release of prisoners. Qatar hopes these efforts will pave the way for a political resolution to the Palestinian issue.