Qatar and Egypt vowed to continue their intensive efforts to help reach an agreement that brings an end to the war in Gaza, alleviates the humanitarian suffering in the enclave, ensures the protection of civilians, and facilitates the exchange of detainees and prisoners.

The two countries indicated that some progress has been achieved during the most recent intensive round of negotiations, which lasted three weeks.

They affirmed that the suspension of negotiations — to hold consultations before resuming dialogue once again — is a standard procedure within the context of these complex negotiations.

The two nations called for refraining from being swayed by leaks circulated by certain media outlets in attempts to undermine these efforts and influence the course of the negotiation process. They emphasised that such leaks do not reflect reality and originate from parties uninformed about the progress of the negotiations.

The two countries called on international media outlets to act responsibly and uphold journalism ethics by highlighting the unprecedented suffering taking place in the Gaza Strip, rather than playing a role in undermining efforts aimed at ending the war.

The two countries, in partnership with USA, reaffirmed their commitment to continuing efforts toward reaching a comprehensive agreement for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

A day earlier, US special envoy Steve Witkoff had said he was cutting short talks aimed at reaching a truce in Israel’s war on Gaza, after the latest proposal from Hamas showed ‘a lack of desire to reach a ceasefire.’

Witkoff made the announcement in a statement on Thursday, just hours after the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also recalled its negotiating team from Qatar amid the latest diplomatic flurry.

Hamas, which has repeatedly accused Israel of blocking a ceasefire agreement, said it was surprised by Witkoff’s remarks.

“The movement affirms its keenness to continue negotiations and engage in them in a manner that helps overcome obstacles and leads to a permanent ceasefire agreement,” said Hamas in a statement.

Hamas had earlier submitted its latest response to a ceasefire framework floated by mediators Qatar, Egypt and the US. Netanyahu’s office confirmed receipt of the response, and said it was under review. Neither side disclosed the contents.

Both Israel and Hamas are facing growing international pressure to reach an agreement as the humanitarian and hunger crisis in the territory continues to deteriorate sharply amid Israel’s severe restrictions on the entry of aid.

At least 115 people have died from malnutrition since Israel launched its war on Gaza in October 2023, mostly in recent weeks, as the United Nations and aid agencies have warned that Gaza’s residents were facing mass starvation.

---

Make sure to check out our social media to keep track of the latest content. 

Instagram - @qatarliving

X - @qatarliving

Facebook - Qatar Living

YouTube - qatarlivingofficial