Arab States Reach Consensus on Gaza at Doha Forum

Representatives from multiple Arab nations have indicated agreement on moving the Gaza agreement forward, though they are reluctant to contribute personnel directly. Over the weekend, officials gathered in Doha for the annual Doha Forum, signaling a shared commitment to advance the Trump-supported ceasefire initiative to a new stage. The White House is also reportedly in favor of this progression.

During the forum, Egypts Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty emphasized the need for the swift deployment of an international force to monitor the ceasefire, describing it as a priority for the second phase of a peace arrangement for the Gaza Strip, according to Arab News. Similarly, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan told Reuters that establishing a reliable Palestinian civil administration alongside a vetted and trained police force is crucial for Hamas to relinquish control, noting that Hamas is prepared to transfer governance of the enclave.

Qatar Advocates Moving Forward

Qatar, host of the forum, is urging the transition to a new phase in Gaza, even while one hostage remains captive. Doha maintains that this phase can proceed before all hostages are released, though the ceasefire agreement stipulates their full handover. Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani described the current negotiations to solidify the US-backed truce as being at a critical juncture, highlighting the role of mediators in advancing the next stage of the ceasefire.

Al-Arabiya reported that the Board of Peace, tasked with post-war Gaza reconstruction, is expected to convene by the end of the year. The outlet also detailed Qatars perspectives on maintaining momentum in the ongoing negotiations.

Egypt Stands Firm on Rafah Crossing Policy

Egypt has reiterated that the Rafah crossing will not be opened solely to allow Gazans to leave, in contrast to Israeli suggestions of facilitating departures. Historically, proposals for Gazans to move to Egypt, Libya, or other nations have failed. Egypt insists that any border opening must support two-way movement, allowing people to both enter and exit Gaza. Cairo views one-way departures as a potential displacement strategy, which it firmly rejects.

International Stabilization Force in Gaza

There is broad Arab and Turkish support for deploying an international stabilization force to Gaza as part of the new phase, citing Israeli delays in implementing the ceasefire as an obstacle. However, while countries support the initiative, few are willing to commit their own personnel. Turkey has expressed interest in contributing, but Israel opposes an expanded Turkish role due to Ankaras perceived ties to Hamas, adding complexity to advancing the next stage.

The Trump administration may need to engage more actively with Arab and Muslim countries to facilitate the implementation of Gazas next steps.

Author: Jackson Miller