Qatar's Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, spoke out on Tuesday about the ongoing Israeli war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip, expressing deep concern over the massive destruction caused by the offensive. While addressing the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Al Thani criticized Israel and the international community, emphasizing that a two-state solution is crucial to bringing an end to the conflict.
Al Thani highlighted the devastating impact of the Hamas attack on October 7 and the subsequent Israeli response, stating that Gaza is no longer recognizable due to the extensive damage caused by the conflict. He described the situation as 'carpet bombing everywhere,' emphasizing the need for an immediate resolution.
In addition to discussing the destruction in Gaza, Al Thani expressed his worry about the ongoing tensions in the West Bank, where Palestinians have also lost their lives at the hands of Israeli security forces. He called for an end to Palestinian divisions, stressing that a two-state solution would require a government and politicians in Israel who believe in peaceful coexistence.
The Prime Minister also warned about the escalating tensions in the Middle East, pointing out that a military confrontation in the region's waterways would not contain the attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels. He described the current situation in the region as a 'recipe for escalation everywhere,' calling on the international community to address the root causes of conflict and work towards peaceful resolutions.
Meanwhile, Israel reported that at least 25 rockets were launched from the Gaza Strip towards southern Israel on Tuesday, causing damage to a store. This bombardment from Gaza marks one of the most intense attacks in over a week. In response, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that the Israeli army was expanding its military control from northern Gaza into other parts of the strip.
Despite Israel's claims of dismantling Hamas's military capabilities in various areas of Gaza, Hamas continues to launch rockets towards Israel. Gallant expressed confidence that military operations in southern Gaza would come to an end soon, although he did not provide a specific timeframe. He reiterated the importance of targeting Hamas leaders and their hideouts in Khan Younis to secure the release of over 100 hostages still held by the militant group.
In the midst of the ongoing conflict, an exchange of fire along the Israel-Egypt border resulted in injuries to an Israeli soldier and the death of one person in Egypt. The Israeli military attributed the incident to 20 armed suspects, while Egypt described them as attempting to smuggle drugs. Relations between Egypt and Israel have been strained due to Israel's protracted war against Hamas in Gaza.
Additionally, the United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, warned of a dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, characterized by the risk of starvation and disease outbreaks. Guterres blamed the inability to deliver vital aid to Gaza on the widespread bombardment, barriers to entry, and restrictions on distribution under Israeli control. He called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the release of all hostages captured during Hamas' initial attack on southern Israel.
As the conflict continues to ravage Gaza, international efforts to address the crisis have been amplified. The situation calls for a comprehensive resolution that addresses the root causes of the conflict, ensures the delivery of humanitarian aid, and works towards a lasting ceasefire that upholds the rights and dignity of all parties involved.
