DOHA: Qatar continues to play a pivotal role in facilitating negotiations for the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, now in its 16th day.
Spokesperson for Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Majed Al Ansari announced in a press conference on Tuesday that discussions are advancing without any significant violations reported under the agreement, according to the operations room monitoring its implementation.
Al Ansari confirmed that a breakthrough has been achieved, with Palestinian resistance factions agreeing to release Israeli detainee Arbel Yehudbefore Friday.
A subsequent exchange of detainees is scheduled for Saturday, marking a critical step in maintaining the fragile truce.
Humanitarian aid push amid challenges
Al Ansari highlighted the complexities surrounding humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza, describing it as a "significant challenge" but emphasizing Qatar's commitment to addressing it. "We are working closely with our partners to ensure aid reaches those in need, particularly in northern Gaza, where the devastation is immense," he stated.
The spokesperson also announced the arrival of the first shipment of Qatari aid via a land corridor into Gaza.
This humanitarian effort underscores Qatar’s broader diplomatic mission, which Al Ansari framed as ensuring "the full realization of Palestinian rights, including the establishment of their state on their land".
Breakthrough in detainee negotiations
The Israeli government had recently cited the unresolved detention of Yehudas a reason for halting the return of tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza. However, Qatar’s mediation has reportedly resulted in a mutual understanding. According to the agreement, Yehudand two other Israeli detainees will be released before Friday, with an additional three expected to be freed on Saturday.
A message from Gaza
Meanwhile, the Al-Quds Brigades, the military wing of Islamic Jihad, released a video on Monday featuring Yehud.
In the footage, dated January 25, 2025, she confirmed her captivity and well-being, providing details such as her birth date, identification number, and military service record.
The video included a direct plea to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and USPresident Donald Trump, urging them to safeguard the ceasefire’s continuation to secure the safe return of all detainees.
As the world watches, Qatar's efforts to stabilize the situation in Gaza stand as a testament to its unwavering commitment to peace, humanitarian relief, and the pursuit of justice for the Palestinian people.
