Qatar has reaffirmed its commitment to working with other parties to transition to the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, despite logistical challenges hindering the recovery of bodies.
“We believe it is essential to push both parties towards the second phase as soon as possible,” said Majed Al-Ansari, Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman, during a press conference in Doha. He noted that ceasefire violations are complicating the implementation of certain provisions of the agreement.
Al-Ansari emphasized that the current truce is the longest since the start of the conflict and warned that any breach of the ceasefire poses a threat to its stability. Qatar is working closely with its partners to capitalize on the truce and facilitate progress towards the second phase.
Regarding the recovery of bodies, Al-Ansari explained that the logistical situation in Gaza is hindering efforts to locate them. “There is one captive body that has not yet been returned to Israel, and the progress made so far is a significant achievement,” he said.
Talks are expected to address contentious issues, including the fate of Hamas fighters trapped in tunnels in an area under Israeli control in southern Gaza. Qatar expressed confidence in US President Donald Trump’s plan and the US position on supporting the continuation of the truce.
Egypt and Germany Emphasize Need for Gaza Reconstruction
Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas have stressed the importance of rebuilding Gaza. Shoukry said, “We are nearing completion of the first phase of President Trump’s peace plan and hope to increase aid to Gaza.”
During a joint press conference, Shoukry noted that reconstruction and development in Gaza are integral components of Trump’s peace plan, and Egypt is coordinating with the US on this issue. Egypt is also prepared to engage in consultations and coordination with European countries on training Palestinian security forces.
Maas emphasized that disarming Hamas is a fundamental condition for easing tensions in Gaza and called for creating conditions conducive to deploying international stabilization forces to ensure security and stability in the territory. “Germany is committed to supporting the Gaza reconstruction conference scheduled to be held in Cairo.”
Source: Al-Manar English Website
