Gaza Ceasefire Talks at Critical Juncture: Qatar PM Says Truce is Not Complete, Demands Israeli Withdrawal

Gaza Ceasefire Talks at Critical Juncture, Qatar PM Emphasizes Incomplete Truce

Negotiations aimed at solidifying the U.S.-backed truce in Gaza are currently at a critical juncture, according to Qatar's Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani. Speaking at the Doha Forum conference in Qatar, Sheikh Al-Thani emphasized that while violence has subsided since the initial Gaza truce nearly a month ago, a full ceasefire has not yet been achieved. He clarified that the current cessation of hostilities is merely a "pause," not a complete ceasefire.

Conditions for a True Ceasefire

For a true ceasefire to be realized, the Qatari Prime Minister outlined essential conditions: a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the restoration of stability within the enclave, and unrestricted movement for its inhabitants. These conditions, he noted, are not presently met.

Advancing the Peace Plan

Mediators, including Qatar—a crucial player in the conflict resolution efforts—are actively working to advance the next phase of a lasting ceasefire. Discussions are ongoing regarding U.S. President Donald Trump's broader two-year war-ending plan for the Palestinian enclave. This plan envisions an interim technocratic Palestinian government in Gaza, overseen by an international "board of peace" and supported by an international security force. A significant challenge in these talks has been finalizing the composition and mandate of this proposed international security force.

Hostage Release and Ongoing Tensions

Recently, an Israeli delegation engaged in discussions in Cairo with mediators concerning the immediate release of the remaining hostage held in Gaza. This particular release would mark the completion of a vital initial component of President Trump's plan.

Since the fragile truce commenced on October 10, Hamas has released all 20 living hostages and repatriated 27 bodies. In exchange, approximately 2,000 Palestinian detainees and convicted prisoners have been freed. Despite the overall reduction in violence, Israel has continued to conduct strikes and demolish what it claims to be Hamas infrastructure in Gaza. Both Hamas and Israel have exchanged accusations of violating the terms of the U.S.-backed agreement, highlighting the precarious nature of the current situation.