Qatar has reaffirmed its steadfast support for the Palestinian people and a two-state solution, following recent escalations in the Gaza Strip and wider regional tensions. Speaking before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, emphasized the need for a sovereign and viable Palestinian state based on 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The statement comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to maintain a ceasefire and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Qatar’s Commitment to the Palestinian Cause
The State of Qatar’s position remains firmly rooted in international law and UN resolutions, advocating for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including self-determination and an end to the occupation. This commitment was highlighted during the UNGA session addressing the Palestinian cause, a regular agenda item reflecting the protracted nature of the conflict. According to Sheikha Alya, Qatar views the recent New York Declaration – stemming from a UN High-Level International Conference – as a reaffirmation of global dedication to the two-state solution.
Recent Mediation Efforts
Qatar has been actively involved in mediation efforts to de-escalate violence in Gaza. Sheikha Alya detailed Qatar’s participation in a meeting convened by former US President Donald Trump, where a plan to end the war, provide humanitarian aid, and rebuild Gaza was discussed. Additionally, Qatar, along with seven other Arab and Islamic nations, expressed appreciation for President Trump’s involvement and welcomed the proposed initiative.
Further demonstrating its diplomatic role, Qatar helped broker a ceasefire agreement in Gaza through continued collaboration with the United States, Egypt and Turkey, a deal which was solidified at the Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit in October. The country is now focusing on consolidating this ceasefire and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of vital assistance to the region, as well as the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces.
Condemnation of Violence and Regional Stability
The Qatari representative strongly condemned recent Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip and characterized them as a “dangerous escalation” threatening the fragile ceasefire. Qatar also voiced vehement opposition to an Israeli incursion in rural Damascus and a raid on the Ain Al-Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp in Lebanon. These actions, Qatar argued, constitute violations of international law and the sovereignty of Syria and Lebanon, respectively. These events underscore the interconnectedness of security challenges in the Middle East.
Qatar emphasized the importance of regional stability, linking the resolution of the Palestinian issue to broader peace and security in the area. This includes addressing humanitarian concerns and fostering conditions for sustainable development. The situation in Gaza is considered crucial for achieving this stability, highlighting the urgent need for a lasting political solution.
Qatar also expressed concerns regarding the financial crisis faced by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), a vital organization supporting Palestinian refugees. Sheikha Alya reiterated the right of Palestinian refugees to return to their homes, as outlined in UN General Assembly Resolution 194 and UN Security Council Resolution 237. Support for UNRWA is considered essential for mitigating the effects of the ongoing conflict and providing crucial services to vulnerable populations.
Looking ahead, Qatar continues to support the international conference on rebuilding Gaza, scheduled to be hosted by Egypt, and is collaborating with regional and international partners to coordinate humanitarian efforts. The focus will be on improving living conditions for Palestinians in Gaza and laying the groundwork for long-term recovery. The success of this conference and the effective allocation of aid will be key indicators of progress.
The next steps involve implementing UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and ensuring adherence to the ceasefire agreement. However, the path to a lasting peace remains uncertain, contingent upon continued diplomatic engagement, a commitment to de-escalation from all parties, and a genuine pursuit of a two-state solution. The international community will be closely watching for further developments regarding the ceasefire’s durability and progress toward a comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian people’s situation. The issue of UNRWA funding and operations will also remain a crucial factor to monitor.
Further developments depend upon the reactions of all parties to the ongoing Middle East crisis.
Qatar continues to emphasize finding a political solution to the ongoing Gaza war.
