Qatari PM and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan have voiced concern about the risk of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war spreading to other parts of the region.
Speaking at a press conference after a meeting with his Turkish counterpart in Doha, Al Thani urged all parties to stop “plunging the entire region into mayhem”, which could give rise to an “unbearable crisis.”
He emphasized that every human life was “precious.”
“We cannot condemn loss of life on one side, and just fight on the other,” he added.
According to the Qatari Foreign Minister, his country and Turkey have examined all dimensions of the conflict in the meeting, including mechanisms to reach a ceasefire “on all fronts” and prevent further escalation in the conflict.
He said, “Qatar condemns the collective punishment policy on Gaza … more than 2.3 million Palestinians are denied their basic necessities,” adding that “This is a flagrant violation of international law.”
Also, Al Thani disclosed that hostage negotiations were ongoing.
“If we compare where we are to where we started, there is progress. We are hopeful. And if we are able to get any further, we will see some breakthrough soon,” he said.
Additionally, Al Thani noted that the only way to reach a peaceful solution in Gaza is to keep communication channels open.
He added that Qatar will continue coordinating with Turkey and regional partners to de-escalate the crisis in Gaza.
On his part, Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan stated that the world needs to act to end Israel’s war on Gaza.
“Israel is targeting civilians even in hospitals and places of worship. Every human being with a conscience should act to put an end to this brutality. We should act together and in unity.
“What Israeli occupation forces are exercising is a collective punishment against all the residents of Gaza. Gazans cannot be uprooted from their homeland.”
Hakan Fidan
A Choice Between Lasting Peace Or A World War
Moreover, Fidan suggested the creation of an independent Palestinian state as the only solution to the ongoing war.
“We are at a turning point in history. Either we reach a lasting peace or a world war will break out. We call on all parties, regional and international stakeholders, to listen to the voice of reason. And those who are encouraging Israel to continue its crimes are also liable. If we don’t act fast, we will have darker days to come.
“Israel must realise it cannot have peace and security with violence. Today’s victory might lead to future defeat. The only solution is to have an independent Palestinian state established on the basis of the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.”
Hakan Fidan
Fidan asserted that Israel’s devastating siege of Gaza will only worsen the conflict.
“Cutting of electricity, water and the denial of the delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza will exacerbate the crisis and is also violation of the international law,” Fidan said.
“If we do not act the violence will exacerbate and also the reaction and response will be harsher, which is why we should all do what we can to steer away from violence or armed confrontation.
“The worst scenario will represent a huge catastrophe. We regret to see Europe and the West backing the military operations without any condemnation of Israeli violations. Each and every life is precious.
Hakan Fidan
“We call for an immediate halt to military operations and the swift opening of humanitarian corridor,” he added.
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