DOHA: Two days of intensive talks in Doha on a ceasefire and hostage release deal for the Gaza Strip were conducted in a positive atmosphere, according to a joint statement issued on Friday by the mediators—Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.
The joint statement detailed the progress made and outlined the next steps in the process. It noted that technical teams will continue to refine the details of a proposal from Washington, designed to address gaps in previous agreements and expedite the ceasefire’s implementation.
Senior officials from the involved countries are scheduled to meet in Cairo before the end of next week to finalize the agreement based on this proposal.
The US, supported by Egypt and Qatar, presented a proposal to Israel and Hamas that aligns with President Joe Biden’s principles and United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735. This proposal builds on prior agreements and aims to resolve remaining issues quickly.
The statement described the recent talks as serious and constructive, emphasizing that future efforts will focus on implementation details, including humanitarian concerns and prisoner arrangements.
“There is no further time to waste nor excuses for any delay. It is time to release the hostages and detainees, begin the ceasefire, and implement this agreement.”
The path is now set to achieve these goals, saving lives, providing relief to the people of Gaza, and de-escalating regional tensions.
Earlier, Hamas confirmed its commitment to supporting the mediation efforts of Egypt and Qatar. The group stressed its dedication to achieving a ceasefire to end the violence against its people.
Hamas stated it has shown flexibility and positivity in negotiations to halt the bloodshed, facilitate a prisoner exchange, provide relief, return displaced persons, and rebuild the destruction caused by the conflict.
