In a high-level discussion on Tuesday, US President Joe Biden and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani focused on the imperative to secure the release of hostages in Gaza and intensify efforts to enhance humanitarian aid, according to a statement from the White House.
Having played a mediating role alongside Egypt in brokering the late November truce between Israel and the militant group Hamas, Qatar has continued its diplomatic involvement. However, recent attempts to establish a new truce have shown limited public progress thus far.
“The two leaders engaged in a discussion on the pressing initiative to secure the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas, including American citizens,” noted the White House readout. The leaders also delved into conversations about expanding access to aid.
The Qatari State News Agency reported that the emir received a phone call from President Biden to delve into the latest developments and ongoing collaborative mediation efforts aimed at pacifying the situation in the besieged enclave and achieving a lasting ceasefire.
