Qatari Emir Calls for Gaza Ceasefire in Talks with Blinken

Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani stressed the necessity of working towards an immediate ceasefire and protecting civilians, a sufficient and sustainable humanitarian aid delivery into all areas of the Gaza Strip, and working to reduce the escalation to ensure stability and security in the region, reported Qatar News agency.

Later in the day, Qatar's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani held a press conference in Doha with Blinken.

The Prime Minister of Qatar told reporters that the recent killing of a senior Hamas leader has impacted Qatar's mediation efforts in the Israel-Hamas conflict, while Qatar remains committed to continuing its mediation efforts.

For his part, Blinken stated that he would raise the issue of protecting civilians during his upcoming visit to Tel Aviv, adding that Palestinian civilians must be allowed to return to their homes and should not be forced to leave Gaza.

The Israeli regime has been pounding the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023. At least 22,722 Palestinians have been killed –including 9,600 children– in the Israeli attacks.