Doha, 30 January 2024 (TDI): In a recent visit to Washington, DC, Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
During their ongoing discussion, they highlighted the cordial strategic partnership between the two countries, as well as strategies that could further advance and strengthen ties.
Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets US Secretary of State#MOFAQatar pic.twitter.com/uRbVguahoz
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Qatar (@MofaQatar_EN) January 29, 2024
In addition, both sides addressed the most recent happenings in the Gaza Strip and occupied Palestinian territories and the importance of finding a fair and long-term solution to the Palestinian cause.
They also underscored the importance of continued entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, as well as the latest regional issues and strategies to prevent further expansion of tensions.
Qatar’s mediation role and Israel’s response
According to reports, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently criticized Qatar’s position as a mediator between Israel and Hamas following the October 7 incident.
In response to a leaked video from Israel, Qatar has warned Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for allegedly calling the Gulf country’s position as a mediator in the Gaza conflict “problematic.”
Also Read: US Secretary Blinken speaks with Qatari Leaders
Moreover, this past week, Netanyahu accused Qatar of funding Hamas and expressed dissatisfaction with the US plan to expand the deployment of military installations in the Gulf state at a meeting among the families of hostages held in Gaza.
On Wednesday, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman Majed al-Ansari stated, “These remarks, if validated, are irresponsible and destructive to efforts to save innocent lives, but are not surprising.”
A positive future for Qatar-US relations
During the discussion, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed respect for its close ties with the United States of America. It was highlighted that the two sides intend to expand this partnership in various fields.
Furthermore, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, showed appreciation for the United States’ moves to reduce tensions and promote stability and peace in the Middle East.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken mentioned that he met with Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani in Washington, DC, to discuss efforts to obtain the release of all remaining Hamas hostages.
“We are grateful for Qatar’s cooperation and vital role in mediating,” Secretary Blinken added.
I met with @MBA_AlThani_ in Washington, DC, to discuss efforts to secure the release of all the remaining hostages held by Hamas. We are thankful for Qatar’s partnership and indispensable role in mediating. pic.twitter.com/ngdqwM5miY
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) January 30, 2024
Summing up the discussions, Qatar’s Prime Minister and US Secretary of State showed major concern over the new developments in the Middle East, while also criticizing the attack on the US base in Jordan and the breach of the Kingdom’s security.
Furthermore, he delivered the State of Qatar’s concerns to the families of the victims, as well as to the US government and people, wishing those injured a speedy recovery.
