Mediators Qatar and Egypt Call for Next Steps in Gaza Truce

Qatar and Egypt, as guarantors of the Gaza ceasefire, emphasized the importance of the withdrawal of Israeli troops and the deployment of an international stabilization force as essential steps towards fully implementing the fragile agreement. These measures were outlined in the US- and UN-backed peace plan, which has successfully reduced the conflict in the Palestinian territory, but further discussions are needed to progress from the initial phase of the deal. The first phase witnessed Israeli troops retreating behind a ‘yellow line’ within Gaza’s borders, while Hamas released living hostages and surrendered most of the deceased hostages. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani of Qatar stressed the critical nature of the current phase at the Doha Forum, stating that a ceasefire requires the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces and the restoration of stability in Gaza.