Cairo: The State of Qatar took part in the Cairo Ministerial Conference to Enhance the Humanitarian Response in Gaza, held under the theme “A Year Since the Humanitarian Catastrophe in Gaza: Urgent Needs, Lasting Solutions.” HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani led Qatar’s delegation at the event.
According to Qatar News Agency, HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad reiterated Qatar’s unwavering commitment to supporting humanitarian aid efforts for the Gaza Strip. She highlighted Qatar’s collaboration with UN agencies, Egypt, and Jordan to implement initiatives aimed at aiding the Palestinian people amid mounting challenges to international relief efforts.
Her Excellency noted that despite ongoing mediation efforts by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, Gaza’s humanitarian situation has worsened significantly since the conflict began over a year ago. The region faces severe shortages of food,
medicine, and essential supplies, compounded by continued aggression that devastates infrastructure and shelters.
The Minister emphasized the urgent need to establish unrestricted humanitarian corridors to expedite relief supplies and prevent further loss of life, particularly among vulnerable groups like children and the elderly. She announced Qatar’s recent launch of an air bridge to send aid to Gaza, reflecting the country’s commitment to supporting Palestinians per the directives of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
Her Excellency reported that approximately 100 Qatari aircraft have delivered crucial supplies to Gaza and evacuated orphaned, sick, and injured children to Doha for treatment. Qatar has pledged to treat 1,500 injured individuals and sponsor 3,000 orphans from the region.
Additionally, Qatar has committed USD 100 million to the humanitarian response in Palestine, following a previous USD 50 million pledge. The country continues to support the United Nations Relief and Works Agenc
y for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and has provided USD 4.5 million in cash assistance to workers and patients stranded in the occupied West Bank.
The Minister reiterated Qatar’s support for UNRWA’s mandate and the right of Palestinian refugees to return as per international resolutions. She urged global support for UNRWA to tackle increasing challenges.
Her Excellency stressed that halting the Palestinian bloodshed requires a ceasefire and called on the international community to enforce Security Council resolutions mandating an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid entry into Gaza.
She concluded by emphasizing the need for international justice to end Palestinian suffering and reiterated Qatar’s dedication to supporting Palestinian self-determination and a just peace based on ending the occupation and recognizing Palestinian rights, in line with international resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.
HE the Minister underscored the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law and strengthe
ning the UN’s role in alleviating Palestinian suffering, condemning Israeli actions that hinder UNRWA and humanitarian efforts in the region.