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Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Majid al-Ensari said there is no willingness on Israel’s side to enter peace negotiations, warning that waiting for a peace process is futile. “While there is no intention on Israel’s part to engage in the peace process, waiting for it has no benefit,” he said.
Ensari spoke at a press conference in Doha about ongoing ceasefire talks between Hamas and Israel, mediated by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, as well as the recognition of a Palestinian state. He emphasized the importance of strong representation of Palestinians in international forums and said Israel’s current actions face clear opposition at the regional and global levels.
Ensari called on the international community to present a unified stance to stop Israeli attacks. He stressed that humanitarian aid must not be tied to any agreements and urged the immediate opening of border crossings to deliver aid to Gaza.
Hamas announced it accepted Egypt and Qatar’s proposal for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange in Gaza. An unnamed senior Israeli official told the press that despite receiving Hamas’ response, Tel Aviv’s stance remains unchanged, insisting on the full release of hostages.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office said there are currently no plans to send delegations to Doha or Cairo for talks.
Israel’s Security Cabinet approved a plan on Aug. 8 to occupy northern Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously said the goal is to occupy the entire Gaza Strip.
Israeli media reported that the army has been ordered to occupy the remaining areas, though the operation is not expected before September.
The plan includes relocating about 1 million Palestinians southward, besieging the city, and conducting intensive attacks, followed by the occupation of refugee camps in Gaza’s city center.
Israel occupied Gaza from 1967 to 2005. Today, roughly 2.3 million Palestinians live in the Gaza Strip, which has been under a heavy blockade for 18 years.
Ensari said efforts to secure a ceasefire are ongoing, and the goal is to announce an agreement as soon as possible.
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