Doha: The Qatari Foreign Minister on Sunday responded to the Israeli occupation's provocative statements against Qatar and its efforts to end the Gaza Strip violence. Advisor to the Prime Minister and Foreign Ministry spokesman Dr. Majed Al-Ansari, in a statement to the Qatar News Agency (QNA), expressed Qatar's firm rejection of the inflammatory remarks from the Israeli occupation Prime Minister's Office, describing them as lacking in basic political and moral responsibility.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Dr. Al-Ansari criticized the portrayal of ongoing aggression in Gaza as a defense of "civilization," comparing it to rhetoric used by historical regimes to justify crimes against civilians. He emphasized Qatar's role since the war's onset, working with partners to mediate for an end to fighting, civilian protection, and the release of hostages and detainees.
Dr. Al-Ansari questioned whether the release of 138 hostages resulted from military operations or the criticized mediation efforts. He highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, marked by blockade, starvation, and lack of medicine and shelter, questioning if this represents the promoted "civilization." He stressed that Qatar's principled foreign policy aligns with its role as a mediator and is undeterred by campaigns against it.
He reaffirmed Qatar's cooperation with Egypt and the US for an immediate ceasefire, continuous humanitarian aid, and a just peace based on justice and humanity. Dr. Al-Ansari reiterated Qatar's belief in peace through a comprehensive settlement based on international legitimacy, ending the occupation, and ensuring Palestinian rights, including an independent state along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.