Doha: Qatari newspapers affirmed in their editorials Sunday that the international community is optimistic about reaching a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip after more than ten months of war. This optimism emerged following the Doha talks, held on Thursday and Friday, between mediators aiming to reach a ceasefire agreement in Gaza and secure the release of hostages and detainees. The joint statement issued by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States described these talks as serious, constructive, and conducted in a positive atmosphere.
The newspapers emphasized the importance of seizing the opportunity presented by the ongoing negotiations on the Gaza ceasefire to reach an agreement that would save lives and prevent the region from the consequences of further escalation. They noted that the continuation of the war in the region leads to a dangerous and endless cycle of instability.
Al-Raya daily said that the significant diplomatic efforts led by the State of Qatar along with partners in Egypt and the Unite
d States to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, have gained continuous international support, as mediation is seen as the only solution to end the crisis and alleviate the severe humanitarian suffering in Gaza.
The paper warned that the ongoing brutal Israeli war, which has lasted for ten months, will only result in more killing, destruction, and displacement. The newspaper added that now, after all the heavy costs that have been paid, and with the region on the brink of further escalation and a comprehensive regional war, the parties to the crisis must seize this historic opportunity and engage seriously in negotiations aimed at stopping the bloodshed.
The editorial continued, saying that the Doha statement sent a message of optimism and hope for the possibility of ending the war, releasing prisoners, and delivering aid. This was welcomed by a European statement issued by the foreign ministers of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy, who expressed their support for the mediation efforts led by Qatar, Eg
ypt, and the United States to reach a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. The ministers also emphasized their support for the constructive approach adopted in the Doha negotiations and stressed the need for all parties to continue participating positively and flexibly, avoiding any escalation that could threaten the chances for peace in the region, especially given the current critical circumstances.
Al-Raya concluded by saying that now, after all these long months of killing, destruction, and suffering, the time has come to resolve the crisis peacefully, moving away from personal interests and political gains, noting that during the Doha negotiations, a proposal was put forward that narrows the gaps between the parties and aligns with the principles set by President Biden on May 31, 2024, and United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735. This proposal builds on the points of agreement achieved over the past week and addresses the remaining gaps in a manner that allows for the swift implementation of the agreeme
nt.
Meanwhile, Al-Sharq newspaper said that Doha, Cairo, and Washington are witnessing intensive activity and around-the-clock consultations to push forward efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement, end the war in the Gaza Strip, and conclude a comprehensive deal for the exchange of Palestinian prisoners and hostages held in Gaza. This follows the intensive two-day talks in Doha, during which senior officials from the three countries leading the joint mediation engaged with relevant parties.
The paper pointed out that these talks, described in a joint statement as serious, constructive, and conducted in a positive atmosphere, concluded with the joint mediation offering a proposal to both parties. This proposal aims to narrow the gaps between them and aligns with the principles set forth by President Biden on May 31, 2024, and United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735. The proposal builds on the points of agreement achieved in recent days and addresses the remaining gaps in a manner that allows for the r
apid implementation of the agreement.
The paper also noted that the Doha negotiations witnessed intensive contacts to advance efforts towards de-escalation and regional stability and to end the war on Gaza. The most notable of these was the discussion between HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani during a phone call with HE President of the friendly United States Joe Biden. They discussed the latest developments in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories, the joint mediation efforts to end the war in the Strip, and regional and international issues of mutual concern.
Al-Sharq concluded its editorial by saying that the significant efforts made by the State of Qatar stem from its firm commitment to working towards achieving security and stability at both the regional and international levels.
Source: Qatar News Agency
