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Monday, January 19, 2026 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "ceasefire agreement" (20 articles)

Gulf Times
Region

Egyptian President, EU Foreign Policy Chief highlight need to fully implement Gaza ceasefire deal

Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah El Sisi and European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, who is visiting Egypt, reiterated the need to implement the Gaza ceasefire agreement fully and ensure the regular and unrestricted flow of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. Both sides stressed their absolute rejection of any attempts to displace Palestinians from their land and the need to begin implementing the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal and the reconstruction of the strip. They also reaffirmed the importance of resuming the political process to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in accordance with the two-state solution. El Sisi and Kallas discussed ways to advance cooperation in combating terrorism and organized crime, in addition to addressing irregular migration.

Gulf Times
Region

Foreign Ministers of Jordan and Turkiye Discuss Gaza, Syria updates over phone

Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, discussed a host of issues of mutual concern and developments in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and Syria.This came in a phone conversation on Wednesday, during which both sides stressed the importance of adhering to the Gaza ceasefire agreement and moving on to its second phase, in addition to the need to unite efforts to put an end to the dangerous Israeli escalation in the occupied West Bank.Both the ministers also reaffirmed their countries' continued cooperation and coordination to support Syria and its government's efforts in rebuilding the country and maintaining its security, stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, along with the safety of its citizens.

Dr Majid bin Mohammed al-Ansari addressing the news conference Tuesday.
Qatar

Qatar pushes for second phase of Gaza ceasefire

Qatar is working with its mediation partners - Egypt, Türkiye, and the United States - to ensure the implementation of the second phase of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, the reopening of the Rafah crossing, and the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Strip, Adviser to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Majid bin Mohammed al-Ansari said Tuesday.Speaking at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' weekly media briefing, Dr al-Ansari said contacts are still ongoing to reach the second phase of the agreement. However, there are still obstacles under discussion, in addition to several on which agreements have been reached.From day one, Qatar has called for humanitarian aid not to be used as a tool for political blackmail in any conflict anywhere in the world, he said.On recent events in Venezuela, Dr al-Ansari reiterated Qatar's position calling for restraint, de-escalation, and dialogue as the means to address all outstanding issues. He noted Qatar's support for any attempts or efforts aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the crisis there.On Yemen, the official spokesperson said Qatar welcomed the efforts undertaken by the Yemeni government, the legitimate representative of the Yemeni people, within the framework of the Yemeni-Yemeni dialogue process.He commended the invitation extended by the president of the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council to hold a conference in Riyadh to sit down at the negotiating table and discuss solutions to various outstanding issues.He said Qatar emphasised the necessity of the participation of all components of the Yemeni political landscape and their positive engagement in this conference, adding that Qatar highly values the position of Saudi Arabia and its support for this dialogue, the natural outcome of which will be reaching agreements on various issues, including the southern issue in Yemen.He said there is coordination amongst the various Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to support their brothers in Yemen in reaching a settlement and de-escalating the conflict there, noting that relations between the brothers in the region are ongoing and do not require special efforts.He also said Qatar supports the legitimate government in Yemen, pointing to the continued flow of Qatari aid to Yemen through UN agencies and in coordination with its brothers, whilst welcoming any international effort that supports the brothers in Yemen, whether on a humanitarian level or in reaching political agreements.Dr al-Ansari said the situation in Sudan is the biggest humanitarian catastrophe this year, calling on all parties to exert more efforts to resolve the crisis and deliver humanitarian aid to the Sudanese people, especially in conflict zones.He said Qatar continues its communication with various parties in Sudan and its efforts to deliver humanitarian aid, whilst emphasising that it will not be used for political or military purposes.On the threats issued against Iran, Dr al-Ansari said any escalation in the region is not only a threat to stability, but also to international peace and security.He said Doha continues its communication with Tehran and Washington, and supports any dialogue aimed at preventing escalation in the region, adding that there is still room for diplomatic solutions in this context. 

Gulf Times
Region

Palestinian girl martyred by Israeli fire East of Gaza

A Palestinian girl was martyred Tuesday after being shot by Israeli occupation forces east of Gaza City.Local sources reported that the 11-year-old girl succumbed to her wounds after being shot by the Israeli army in the Zarqa area, northeast of Gaza City.This comes amid continued Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement. The Government Media Office documented 969 violations committed by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip since the agreement came into effect on October 10.The death toll from the Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023, has risen to 71,266 martyrs and 171,222 wounded.

Cambodia's Defence Minister Tea Seiha (left) and Thailand's Defence Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit with the signed documents during the special General Border Committee (GBC) meeting at a border checkpoint in Thailand's Chanthaburi province. – AFP
International

Thailand, Cambodia declare truce after weeks of clashes

Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an "immediate" ceasefire Saturday, the two countries said in a joint statement, pledging to end border clashes that killed dozens of people.UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the announcement "as a positive step towards alleviating the suffering of civilians... and creating an environment conducive to achieving lasting peace", spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.At least 47 people were killed and more than a million displaced in three weeks of fighting with artillery, tanks, drones and jets, according to official tallies.The conflict spread to nearly every border province on both sides, shattering an earlier truce for which US President Donald Trump took credit.Cambodia and Thailand agreed to the ceasefire that took effect at 12pm (0500 GMT), said the declaration signed by the Southeast Asian neighbours' defence ministers at a border checkpoint on the Thai side.The truce applies to "all types of weapons, including attacks on civilians, civilian objects and infrastructures, and military objectives of either side, in all cases and all areas".Both sides agreed to freeze all troop movements and allow civilians living in border areas to return home as soon as possible, the statement said.They also agreed to co-operate on demining efforts and combatting cybercrime, while Thailand was to return 18 captured Cambodian soldiers within 72 hours.Thai Defence Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit said the initial three-day window would be an "observation period to confirm that the ceasefire is real".He called the truce "a door to a peaceful resolution" in a speech earlier.The ceasefire was holding, Thai defence ministry spokesperson Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri told Reuters about two ⁠hours after it went into effect."So far there's been no report of gunfire," he said.Cambodia's ministry of national defence did not report any clashes after what it said had been a Thai airstrike early on Saturday before the ceasefire announcement.Displaced Cambodian Oeum Raksmey told AFP that she was "very happy that people can return home" if the fighting stops."But I dare not return home yet. I am still scared," said the 22-year-old, who has sheltered with her family in Cambodia's Siem Reap province.On the other side of the border, 55-year-old Thai village head Khampong Lueklarp was similarly cautious."I personally think the ceasefire won't really happen," said the head of Ban Ta Sawang Samakkee village in Sisaket province, adding that he hoped for "a real peace".The ceasefire followed three days of border talks convened following a crisis meeting of foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).EU foreign affairs spokesman Anouar El Anouni, in a post on X, thanked "Asean for playing a positive part" and called on Cambodia and Thailand to implement the agreement "in good faith".The European bloc was ready to provide any needed support, he added.The United States and China also pushed for an end to the fighting.Beijing's foreign ministry said the ceasefire "demonstrates that dialogue and consultations are a realistic and effective way of resolving complex disputes", offering support moving forward.China's top diplomat Wang Yi will host the Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers for talks in Yunnan province on January 28-29, the countries said.The conflict stems from a territorial dispute over the colonial-era demarcation of the 800km (500-mile) Thai-Cambodian border, where both sides claim ancient temples.Five days of fighting in July killed dozens of people before a truce was brokered by the United States, China and Asean chair Malaysia.Trump witnessed the signing of an expanded agreement between Thailand and Cambodia in October, but it was broken within months, with each side blaming the other for instigating the fresh fighting.At least 25 Thai soldiers and one Thai civilian were killed in the latest round of clashes, officials said.Cambodia, outgunned and outspent by Bangkok's military, said 21 civilians were killed.Phnom Penh has reported no military deaths, even though an official Facebook post showed first lady Pich Chanmony, the wife of Cambodia's leader Hun Manet, at a funeral for troops killed in the fighting.The violence was still raging while this week's border talks were underway.On Friday, Cambodia accused Thailand of intensifying its bombardment of disputed border areas, and Thai media reported Cambodian attacks overnight.While both sides agreed to halt the fighting, they will still need to resolve the demarcation of their border following the ceasefire.The contested temples are claimed by both nations because of a vague demarcation made by Cambodia's French colonial administrators in 1907."War and clashes don't make the two countries or the two people happy," Thailand's Air Chief Marshal ⁠Prapas Sornjaidee told reporters. "I want to stress that the Thai people and the Cambodian people are not in conflict with each other."UN human rights chief Volker Turk said he hoped the ceasefire "will pave the way for confidence building & peace". 

Gulf Times
Region

One person killed in Israeli airstrike on Southern Lebanon

One person was killed Thursday in an Israeli airstrike on southern Lebanon, in a continued violation of the 2014 ceasefire agreement.Lebanese medical sources reported that the Israeli airstrike on the town of Majdal Selm in the Marjeyoun district resulted in the death of a Lebanese citizen.Earlier Thursday, two people were killed in an Israeli airstrike on eastern Lebanon.It is worth noting that a ceasefire agreement in southern Lebanon came into effect on November 27 of last year, stipulating the withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces from border villages and towns in southern Lebanon within 60 days. However, the occupation forces remain in five locations and continue their violations through shelling and targeting of villages.

Gulf Times
Region

Israeli Army escalates attacks in ongoing violation of Gaza ceasefire

The Israeli occupation army has continued to violate the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, launching new bombardments and artillery shelling on multiple areas across the enclave on Sunday.Palestinian sources reported ongoing artillery shelling targeting the eastern areas of Rafah and Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, accompanied by intense gunfire from armored vehicles and tanks positioned along the eastern border, striking Palestinian homes and agricultural lands.In the north, Israeli occupation vehicles stationed east of Tuffah, Shujaiyya, and the Jabalia refugee camp opened heavy fire, while artillery units bombarded the eastern parts of Deir al-Balah in central Gaza.Field sources also confirmed that Israeli forces continue to carry out large-scale demolitions in eastern Gaza, causing loud explosions as they destroy residential neighborhoods and homes located within the so-called “yellow line” along the separation barrier between Gaza and the Israeli-occupied territories.The violations also include the continued targeting and killing of civilians, renewed shelling across several areas of Gaza, and the ongoing closure of the Rafah border crossing, which prevents the evacuation of the wounded and sick for treatment and hinders the entry of humanitarian aid in the agreed-upon quantities and mechanisms.The ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel came into effect on October 10, as part of the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s initiative aimed at ending the war on Gaza.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs says main parties recognize importance of maintaining ceasefire in Gaza

His Excellency Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani said that everyone has been following over the past twenty-four hours the challenges in Gaza and the violations that have occurred to the ceasefire agreement, adding that what happened yesterday was a major event that drew the attention of the media, but in reality, this was something expected during the ceasefire period, and it is something they have witnessed in their previous experiences with ceasefire agreements.His Excellency said, during a session on the State of Qatar's regional and international role and its joint mediation efforts to end the war on the Gaza Strip, organized by the Council on Foreign Relations in New York, that they have been engaging with both parties to ensure the continuation of the ceasefire, and the American engagement has, of course, been an essential element in this. He believe that what happened yesterday constitutes a violation, and they expect there would be a reaction to it, adding that fortunately, all the main parties recognize the need to preserve the ceasefire and adhere to the agreement.His Excellency affirmed that what happened yesterday in Gaza was disappointing and deeply frustrating, stressing that they are trying to contain it and immediately mobilized their efforts afterward, in full coordination with the United States. He pointed out that they have seen that the United States is also committed to the agreement.HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs stressed the need to ensure that Palestinians live in safety, as well as Israelis, adding that the main objective of the disarmament process, is to end armed activity, create a political horizon for the Palestinian people, and establish a unified Palestinian entity that is the sole legitimate authority to bear arms.His Excellency stressed the importance of addressing the core issue and the root causes of the conflict itself, noting in this regard that they must create a political horizon and an appropriate political environment for both Palestinians and Israelis that enables them to reach an understanding and agreement on coexistence. This is what they are striving for, he said, stressing that they are seeking a two-state solution that puts an end to the suffering of both sides.Regarding the treacherous Israeli attack on the State of Qatar, His Excellency said this attack was shocking, adding it was not only shocking for them in Qatar, but for the entire world. If you look at where and how the attack took place, you will find that it occurred in a well-known residential neighborhood where negotiations usually take place, surrounded by schools, embassies, and other buildings, he explained, adding that the psychological impact of this attack on the Qatari people was very significant. He stressed that they still bear the responsibility as a state to protect citizens and ensure there are adequate security guarantees for them, in addition to ensuring that Qatar's role continues to have impact in ending the conflict and remains unaffected. He pointed out that Qatar has always taken the high road and consistently chosen diplomacy over any other option.His Excellency added that they have used all legal and diplomatic channels to ensure that this attack is not repeated and to protect Qatar and its people, after which they resumed the negotiations. What many people do not know is that the day after the attack, when His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani was speaking with the President of the United States of America Donald Trump, the President noted that this could represent an opportunity to put an end to the war in Gaza. His Highness the Amir was very optimistic about this possibility. Despite all the communication with the Israeli side at that time, Qatar remained engaged with the United States to ensure a resolution was reached, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs said.His Excellency stated that they deeply value and appreciate the relationship that binds the State of Qatar and the United States, adding that the President, the Vice President, and the Secretary of State affirmed that they had no prior knowledge of the attack. His Excellency said that they respect what the US said and understand that this decision was made solely by the Israelis, but the idea that an ongoing mediation effort would be targeted in itself feels like a betrayal. On the very day of the attack, negotiations between Colombia and other parties were taking place only a few hundred meters from the site, as well as talks between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.His Excellency went on to say that the occurrence of this attack in Qatar, on Sept. 9, shocked the world. For a country engaged in so many mediation efforts to come under attack was something no one could have imagined, he said, adding that he believes the American side felt the same shock, and the President personally assured that he would not allow such an event to happen again, and that he would ensure all the security guarantees Qatar needs to continue its role."His Excellency added this attack clearly affected how the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) now views Israel. When the GCC countries witnessed this attack on one of their own members, the impression was clear - any country could be the next target.Regarding the State of Qatar's ongoing mediation efforts, His Excellency explained that they have found that Qatar's ability to act quietly and away from the spotlight gives them an advantage in contributing to the resolution of conflicts, and sometimes in preventing them, through calm diplomatic channels and behind closed doors. He emphasized that Qatar has become a responsible player in this field, and for them, mediation is not merely a political option but a deeply rooted principle in the constitution. Since the founding of the State by Sheikh Jassim, who always called for peace, communication, and dialogue, this has been Qatar's legacy. His Excellency said that they are proud that today Qatar is recognized as a global mediator, not only in the region, but also internationally. The trust Qatar has built over the years through its regional mediations has given its efforts a global dimension. They see this extending from Latin America to Africa and Asia, His Excellency added.On Afghanistan, His Excellency said that there is a camp within Afghanistan that wants to see the country open up to the world and build better relations with all its neighbors. He believe that, in the end, those who want to build a state that has a normal relationship with the international community will prevail. Fundamentally, efforts to change the situation in Afghanistan must be made by the international community in an encouraging, rather than punitive, manner. He explained that Qatar's approach is that instead of saying, 'Because you do this, I will punish you,' it should be the opposite when it comes to Afghanistan - 'If you do this, I will reward you for it.' This approach needs to change within the international community, His Excellency explained, adding that only then they might be able put Afghanistan on the right track.Regarding relations with the United States of America, His Excellency said that Qatar's interest lies in building and strengthening a strong relationship with the United States, noting that they have a solid economic partnership, a strong security and defense partnership, and a close partnership in the energy sector. These multifaceted partnerships are a priority for Qatar and must be maintained and protected, His Excellency said, adding that all their focus is on how to preserve the relationship between the State of Qatar and the United States, because it is an important country for Qatar, just as Qatar is important to the United States. Qatar hosts the largest US air base in the region, and in the energy sector, both of sides are among the world's largest suppliers of liquefied natural gas, His Excellency noted.Regarding Iran's role in the future of the region, His Excellency said Iran is a neighbor, and Qatar share with it the largest gas field in the world, in which it hold the majority. For Qatar, the stability of Iran is essential, he said, explaining that it is very important for Iran to be stable. To ensure this stability, they must think diplomatically about how to reach a solution through diplomacy, while also ensuring that the region remains free of nuclear weapons, while granting Iran the right to develop its peaceful nuclear program for energy generation or any other purpose within international law.His Excellency adding in this regard that they are sometimes concerned by the escalatory statements coming from either Israel or Iran, and they are working to engage with both the United States and Iran to ensure that talks between the two countries return to the right track. He believe that once serious negotiations between Iran and the United States begin, they can reach an agreement that would be better for everyone.

Gulf Times
International

US Secretary of State said that Israel’s moves toward annexation in the West Bank threaten Gaza deal.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that Israel's moves to annex the West Bank threaten the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip. In response to the Knesset's preliminary approval of two bills aimed at imposing Israeli sovereignty over the occupied West Bank and one of the settlements, Rubio added that this would threaten President Donald Trump's plan to end the conflict in Gaza. Regarding Trump's announcement of the cancellation of a summit scheduled to be held with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Budapest, Rubio confirmed that the United States still wants to hold meetings with Russia.

Gulf Times
Region

Muslim World League welcomes Pakistan-Afghanistan ceasefire agreement

The Muslim World League (MWL) has welcomed the signing of an immediate ceasefire agreement between the governments of Pakistan and Afghanistan. In a statement issued by its General Secretariat, MWL Secretary-General Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al Issa commended this positive step and the two governments' agreement to establish mechanisms aimed at consolidating lasting peace and stability through negotiations. He noted that this would spare both countries and their peoples the dangers and tragedies of armed conflict, affirming the League's full support for this positive step.

Gulf Times
Region

GCC welcomes Qatar and Turkiye's efforts to reach ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and Afghanistan

Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi welcomed the diplomatic efforts undertaken by the State of Qatar and Turkiye to reach the ceasefire agreement that was signed by Pakistan and Afghanistan in Doha. The GCC Secretary-General noted that this agreement represents a positive step towards consolidating stability and strengthening bridges of trust between the two countries. He affirmed the GCC's support for all initiatives aimed at establishing peace and promoting dialogue in the region and beyond, contributing to a more stable and prosperous future for peoples.

Gulf Times
International

UN Secretary-General applauds Qatar's pivotal role in facilitating Gaza ceasefire implementation

The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres praised the State of Qatar for its pivotal diplomatic role in facilitating the implementation of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip and supporting efforts to sustain calm, stressing that Qatari mediation efforts were instrumental in achieving this progress.In an official statement, he welcomed the continued implementation of the ceasefire in Gaza, based on the proposal presented by US President Donald Trump regarding the release of Israeli captives and Palestinian detainees. He also commended the United States, the Arab Republic of Egypt and the Republic of Turkiye for their persistent mediation efforts, and acknowledged the indispensable role of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in ensuring that all releases take place safely and humanely.The Secretary-General noted that the United Nations and its partners are rapidly scaling up humanitarian operations across the Gaza Strip, with UN agencies reaching areas that had been cut off for months to deliver life-saving assistance.He underlined that these efforts mark an essential step toward stabilizing conditions and restoring basic human dignity, while emphasizing that humanitarian needs remain vast and that sustained access and adequate funding are critical.