Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari said in the interview that progress is being made on the implementation of the Gaza agreement and on regional efforts to secure an extended ceasefire. He argued that "Israel must not be allowed to delay the agreement or block the move to its second phase."
Al-Ansari stressed that efforts in Gaza are underway to recover the two remaining deceased hostages who are still being held, although he noted this is a "significant challenge". He said Israel must not be allowed to use the delay as a pretext to undermine the framework.
According to al-Ansari, "Qatari efforts carried out within the framework of US President Donald Trump's plan have focused on three goals: ending the war and the bloodshed, ensuring humanitarian aid enters the Gaza Strip, and preventing any annexation of Palestinian land."
The spokesperson said the main challenge now is transitioning from the first stage of the deal to the second, which he believes could pave the way for a long-term arrangement and a complete end to the state of war in Gaza. Still, he acknowledged there is no clear answer as to whether the process will stall if the two deceased hostages are not returned. "Two deceased hostages remain, which is an achievement, although he said major obstacles remain." He said Qatar does not believe Israel should be permitted to interfere with the deal's implementation.
Addressing developments in Judea and Samaria, al-Ansari said a de facto annexation is taking place on the ground, even if Israel has not declared it officially. He said Israeli operations in refugee camps in the West Bank and the separation of its northern and southern areas reflect an annexation process in all but name.
Al-Ansari also referred to US pressure on regional states to join the Abraham Accords. He reiterated Qatar's position that any normalization with Israel is possible only within the framework of resolving the Palestinian issue. He said the absence of a peace process for the Palestinians means there will be no stability in the region.
