Qatar says diplomatic efforts ongoing with all parties despite faltering negotiations

CAIRO – 6 May 2025: Qatar affirmed on Tuesday that it is continuing its political and diplomatic efforts in cooperation with Egypt and the United States, to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip despite the faltering negotiations and the escalation of Israeli military operations.

Qatari Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Majed Al-Ansari said in a press conference that the Qatari-Egyptian mediation remains effective despite the “catastrophic humanitarian situation” in the Gaza Strip and the difficult political and field conditions.

 He noted that “communications are ongoing with all parties, including the United States, particularly with US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.”

Al-Ansari explained that the tripartite mediation focuses on reaching a comprehensive agreement that ends the ongoing war in Gaza and halts the worsening humanitarian catastrophe.

He added that these efforts have already achieved tangible results, most notably the release of many detainees.

The Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson stressed that Doha, in coordination with Cairo, is continuing its diplomatic efforts based on its role as an “honest and internationally trusted mediator”.

 He also affirmed that “humanitarian aid entering Gaza must not be used as a bargaining chip or a negotiating tool at any stage of the political process.”

Al-Ansari pointed out that the first phase of the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement between Hamas and Israel, which entered into force on January 19, was achieved through Egyptian mediation and Qatari and American support.

The efforts faltered in March, with the expansion of Israeli military operations and Hamas's refusal to continue negotiations in light of what it described as a “war of starvation” against civilians in the Gaza Strip.

Despite the complexity of the political and field situation, Doha affirms that it remains committed to its role in pushing for a comprehensive political solution that ends the war and protects civilians, in full coordination with its partners in Egypt and the United States.