Qatari Prime Minister Warns Gaza Ceasefire at Critical Juncture

Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani has indicated that the Gaza ceasefire has reached a "critical moment" as its initial phase concludes. Speaking at the Doha Forum, he emphasized that the current situation is merely a pause in hostilities and not a full ceasefire.

"We cannot consider it yet a ceasefire," he stated. "A ceasefire cannot be completed unless there is a full withdrawal of Israeli forces, there is stability back in Gaza, people can go in and out, which is not the case today."

The ceasefire, which began on October 10, halted major fighting but has not led to complete peace. Gaza health officials report that over 360 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the truce took effect.

The next phase of the U.S.-brokered peace plan includes deploying an international security force in Gaza, forming a new technocratic government, disarming Hamas, and the eventual withdrawal of Israeli forces. However, this phase has yet to commence.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed concerns about the formation of the international security force, noting uncertainties regarding its composition, command structure, and initial mission.

The conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in significant casualties. Hamas-led militants entered Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking over 250 hostages. Israel's subsequent offensive has led to over 70,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza's Health Ministry.

The situation remains volatile, with key stakeholders urging progress in implementing the next phase of the peace plan to achieve lasting stability in the region.