Netanyahu prolonged negotiations to safeguard his political standing, claims ex-Qatar PM

Former Prime Minister of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad Bin Jassim Al Thani, said on Saturday that the ceasefire agreement in Gaza was the result of lengthy and arduous negotiations. He claimed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu aimed to prolong the process to safeguard his position, regardless of the killing and destruction that occurred in Gaza.

In a post on X, Sheikh Hamad emphasised the need for immediate measures following the ceasefire. These include restoring life in Gaza to an acceptable state by providing essential services such as healthcare and food supplies, and addressing the physical and psychological needs of the population.

He further stressed the importance of all parties in the region, including Israel, reassessing the root causes of the conflict and exploring ways to bring it to an end. “This endeavour might demand efforts even more challenging than battlefield engagements, as many are unwilling to achieve just and comprehensive peace in the region,” he remarked.

Sheikh Hamad questioned whether the coming phase could mark the beginning of fair and lasting peace between Arab nations and Israel, particularly between Palestinians and Israelis.

He expressed hope that everyone would recognise that wars bring only disasters and fail to deliver peace. He also extended his gratitude to Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, and the Qatari government for their dedicated efforts since the start of the crisis, which ultimately culminated in the ceasefire agreement.

Read: Qatar, UK discuss ensuring full implementation of Gaza ceasefire deal