Egypt and Qatar, alongside the United States, are pushing for negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, which consists of three stages. While progress has been made, particularly in hostage releases, both sides must fulfill their obligations to ensure success. The recent Arab Summit underscored the need for commitment from all parties to achieve long-term peace.
Dr. Badr Abdel Aati, the Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, has underscored the cooperative responsibility of Egypt and Qatar, along with the United States, in facilitating negotiations for the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. In remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), he acknowledged the successful joint efforts that led to the initial ceasefire agreement in January, which consists of three stages, the first of which has been executed. However, he noted that there are parties attempting to evade their commitments.
Abdel Aati emphasized that both sides involved in the ceasefire agreement must fulfill their obligations, particularly highlighting the need for the Israeli side to adhere to the agreement’s stipulations to ensure successful completion of all three stages. He asserted the necessity of compliance from all parties to maintain the agreement’s integrity.
The Minister expressed confidence in the American role to facilitate the implementation of the agreed terms and to initiate the second phase negotiations without delay. He acknowledged the critical contribution of the Trump administration even prior to its official tenure in reaching the initial ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
He also pointed out the progress in the release of hostages and stressed the importance of continuing efforts to complete the agreements’ subsequent stages, aiming for the release of all hostages and remains in Gaza. In return, Israel is expected to fulfill its obligations, particularly regarding humanitarian aid and the release of Palestinian prisoners.
The Arab Summit convened in Cairo recently emphasized, in its concluding statement, the urgency of completing the second and third stages of the ceasefire agreement and the necessity of each party’s commitment. This commitment from the Israeli side is seen as paramount for achieving a lasting cessation of hostilities in Gaza and a full withdrawal from the territory.
In summary, Egypt and Qatar hold a shared responsibility, in collaboration with the United States, to advance negotiations for the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. The ongoing commitments from both sides are crucial for the success of this agreement. Furthermore, the Arab Summit has highlighted the importance of adhering to these commitments to ensure a permanent peace in the region.
Original Source: www.gulf-times.com
