DOHA: The Qatari Foreign Ministry has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing implementation of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, emphasizing confidence in its complete success.
Speaking at his weekly press briefing on Tuesday, ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari highlighted the constructive progress made since the truce began and the pivotal role Qatar has played in facilitating humanitarian aid and mediating between the parties.
"We are confident in the full implementation of the agreement," Al Ansari stated. "What we have witnessed on the ground so far demonstrates a complete commitment to the terms of the deal. Over 900 trucks loaded with essential supplies have already entered Gaza."
Al Ansari also confirmed that efforts are underway to coordinate the second phase of the prisoner exchange process, set to commence this weekend.
"We are ensuring all logistical and operational details are ironed out. However, we prefer not to disclose specifics of the second phase to safeguard its success," he explained, urging the international community to support the agreement and pressure both sides to adhere to its terms.
Prisoner exchange progress
Details of the agreement emerged on Monday from a senior Hamas official, who revealed that Israel is expected to release 200 Palestinian prisoners, including those serving life and long-term sentences, in exchange for four Israeli female soldiers held by the group.
"The second stage of the first phase will begin on Saturday, January 25," said Nahid Al Fakhouri, head of Hamas' Media Office for Martyrs, Wounded, and Prisoners.He explained that both sides will exchange names of prisoners over the weekend, with the actual exchange scheduled for Sunday, January 26.
Al Fakhouri clarified that the agreement stipulates the release of 30 Palestinians serving life sentences and 20 with high sentences for every captured Israeli female soldier. If Hamas releases all four, a total of 200 Palestinian prisoners will regain their freedom.
Qatar’s role in Gaza relief efforts
Reaffirming Qatar’s commitment to humanitarian support, Al Ansari announced that a new fuel supply bridge to Gaza had been established, with 25 trucks delivering vital fuel supplies on Monday.
"We remain dedicated to easing the suffering of the people in Gaza and ensuring the smooth flow of aid," he said.
A step toward regional engagement
Shifting focus to Syria, Al Ansari revealed that His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, is planning an official visit to Damascus in the near future. This comes as Qatar continues its airlift operations to deliver aid to the war-torn country.
"The State of Qatar remains steadfast in its commitment to providing assistance to the Syrian people and supporting efforts to stabilize the region," he noted.
As Qatar takes center stage in mediating critical regional agreements and delivering humanitarian aid, Al Ansari’s remarks underline Doha’s growing influence in fostering peace and stability across the Middle East.