Qatar Urges Israel to Stop Gaza Operations Now

Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesman, Majed al-Ansari, said Israel should have already stopped operations in Gaza. He referred to US President Donald Trump’s peace plan as the basis for a ceasefire. Ansari stated that Israel’s prime minister had promised to adhere to the plan. However, Israel has not yet ceased fire as expected. The spokesman urged direct questions to the Israeli government about the delay.

Meanwhile, Hamas and Israel are holding indirect talks in Egypt this week. These talks focus on Trump’s 20-point proposal to end the Gaza conflict. The plan also aims to create a roadmap for Gaza’s post-war governance. Hamas agreed to discuss hostage releases under this proposal last Friday. US President Trump called for Israel to immediately stop bombing Gaza to ensure hostage safety.

Ansari expressed cautious optimism about the ongoing negotiations. He said all parties are committed to reaching a consensus but warned of many details to consider. The peace plan requires practical interpretation and communication with all involved parties. He noted it was too soon to discuss Hamas’s political bureau’s future in Doha. Qatar hosts Hamas’s bureau, which helps mediate the conflict with US support.

Qatar’s spokesman emphasized the importance of maintaining communication channels with Hamas. He said the bureau remains necessary as long as dialogue is needed. Recently, Israel targeted Hamas’s leadership in Doha but the bureau still operates. Qatar continues to play a key role in facilitating peace efforts in the region. This mediation is crucial amid ongoing violence and diplomatic tensions.

Two sources close to Hamas’s negotiating team described the indirect talks as “positive.” The first round lasted four hours, and discussions resumed Tuesday in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. Both sides appear willing to continue dialogue despite challenges. The talks focus on achieving a ceasefire and resolving the Gaza crisis. Observers hope these negotiations will lead to lasting peace in the region.