Qatar has reignited efforts to broker Gaza ceasefire in the war-torn Gaza Strip, as Israeli airstrikes continue to claim lives and worsen the humanitarian crisis. Speaking at the Doha Forum, Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said recent developments have created renewed “momentum” to negotiate an end to the conflict, with hopes for tangible progress in the coming weeks.
Renewed Mediation Efforts
A month after halting its mediation role, Qatar stepped back into negotiations after sensing increased willingness from international stakeholders. Al Thani revealed that Qatar’s involvement resumed following the United States presidential election, where the incoming administration expressed a desire for progress before the inauguration.
“We are engaging intensively to restore the process,” said Al Thani, emphasizing Qatar’s commitment to securing a meaningful outcome.
Gaza’s Escalating Death Toll
While diplomatic efforts resume, violence in Gaza persists. On Saturday alone, Israeli strikes killed 39 Palestinians, including 26 victims in a Nuseirat refugee camp attack. The strike targeted a densely populated area housing displaced families, leaving rescuers sifting through rubble in search of survivors.
In Deir el-Balah, Al Jazeera’s Tareq Abu Azzoum reported scenes of devastation, with bodies buried under debris. Medical sources stated that victims included numerous women and children, highlighting the catastrophic impact on civilian lives.
Kamal Adwan Hospital Under Siege
The humanitarian crisis deepens as Israel maintains its siege on Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza. The hospital, one of the last functioning healthcare facilities in the area, remains under attack, with essential services disrupted.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that displaced patients and medical staff fled the facility amid shelling. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed grave concern, calling for the protection of healthcare facilities, which he described as lifelines for northern Gaza’s residents.
Verified footage showed Israeli forces targeting a Red Crescent ambulance near the hospital, further compounding challenges for emergency responders.
Challenges to Ceasefire Negotiations
Efforts to end the war have faced significant obstacles. Critics accuse Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of blocking progress, while outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration has been criticized for failing to condition military aid to Israel on ending hostilities.
In contrast, President-elect Donald Trump has signaled a hardline stance, warning of severe consequences if hostages in Gaza are not released. Trump’s remarks have added pressure on all parties to work toward a resolution before his administration takes office.
Read: Saudi Prince Turki Al Faisal Calls Israel “Genocidal, “Apartheid” State
Qatar’s Role in Negotiation
Qatar has positioned itself as a key mediator, advocating for good-faith negotiations. “The main questions are simple: Is there willingness to end the war? Is there willingness to exchange captives? If the answers are yes, we can secure a deal,” said Al Thani.
Qatar continues to push for progress while emphasizing the need to protect the negotiation process and achieve results that address the humanitarian crisis and restore hope for Gaza’s embattled population.
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