In a joint statement, leaders from the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have urged the immediate resumption of ceasefire negotiations in Gaza. The call for renewed talks comes as the leaders emphasized the urgent need to bring relief to both the people of Gaza and the hostages currently held in the region.
The statement, issued by U.S. President Joe Biden, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, underscores the importance of concluding a ceasefire agreement and facilitating the release of hostages and detainees. The leaders highlighted that their teams have worked extensively over the past months to develop a framework agreement, which is now close to being finalized.
“It is time to bring immediate relief both to the long-suffering people of Gaza as well as the long-suffering hostages and their families. The time has come to conclude the ceasefire and hostages and detainees release deal,” the statement reads.
The proposed agreement, which is based on principles outlined by President Biden on May 31, 2024, and endorsed by UN Security Council Resolution 2735, is reportedly in its final stages, with only the details of implementation remaining to be resolved. The leaders stressed that there is no time left for delays or excuses from any party involved.
“There is no further time to waste nor excuses from any party for further delay. It is time to release the hostages, begin the ceasefire, and implement this agreement,” the statement continued.
The joint statement also highlighted the readiness of the three countries to act as mediators in the negotiations. The leaders expressed their willingness to present a final bridging proposal if necessary, aiming to resolve any remaining issues in a way that satisfies all parties involved.
In an effort to expedite the process, the statement called for both sides to resume discussions on Thursday, August 15, in either Doha or Cairo, with the goal of closing all remaining gaps and commencing the implementation of the agreement without further delay.
The statement concludes with a united call from the leaders of the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, urging all parties to seize this opportunity to bring an end to the ongoing conflict and provide much-needed relief to those affected.
