GCC leaders stress mediation efforts for ceasefire in Gaza: PM

H E Abdul Rahaman bin Jassim Al Thani

Leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have emphasized the crucial need to persist in mediation efforts to attain a comprehensive and sustainable ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. They also highlighted the importance of establishing safe corridors for aid to address the basic needs of the people in Gaza.

During a joint press conference concluding the 44th Session of the GCC Supreme Council in Doha, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani emphasized the collective focus on a political process leading to a just and lasting peace for Palestinians. The leaders discussed various regional and international issues, with a significant emphasis on the situation in Gaza and the violations of international laws by the occupying forces.

Prime Minister Al Thani stated, “Qatar is actively engaged in efforts for a ceasefire, the release of hostages and prisoners, and a prisoners swap, coordinating with partners in Egypt and the US.” He emphasized the priority of a humanitarian truce and the release of prisoners and hostages while underscoring the importance of a lasting ceasefire for a political solution.

The Prime Minister highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Ministerial Committee assigned by the Arab-Islamic Summit, actively addressing the Gaza issue and participating in the UN Security Council meeting. He stressed the unacceptable nature of aid being used as a means to subjugate the Palestinian people.

Against the backdrop of regional turmoil, especially the Israeli aggression in Gaza, the GCC leaders discussed ways to enhance cooperation and integration to end the conflict. Emphasis was placed on preventing the expansion of the conflict and its repercussions on the region.

Their Majesties and Highnesses underscored the need for continued coordination among relevant authorities in member states at political, security, and military levels. The leaders also expressed the importance of supporting and strengthening the work of the Ministerial Committee assigned by the Arab-Islamic Summit held in Riyadh.

GCC Secretary-General Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi praised the clear position of GCC countries regarding the events in Gaza. He affirmed the credibility and regional influence of the GCC countries, citing Qatar's noteworthy efforts to assist the Palestinian people. The summit approved decisions and recommendations for joint Gulf action, with a focus on economic integration. Al Budaiwi acknowledged Qatar's efforts in hosting and ensuring the success of the summit.