Qatar and France Unite, Demanding Open Hormuz Strait and Gaza Ceasefire Implementation

Doha, Qatar - Qatar and France have jointly called for unimpeded navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the implementation of a ceasefire in Gaza. The appeal was made following a meeting between Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and French President Emmanuel Macron in Doha.

A joint statement issued on Wednesday emphasized the critical importance of restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, stating it should be without "constraints or fees." This call comes as Qatari mediator Ibrahim bin Sultan Al Hashmi confirmed ongoing diplomatic efforts to ease regional tensions and reopen the vital waterway. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated on Wednesday that Iran is open to further diplomatic engagement.

The statement also highlighted the leaders' condemnation of "Iranian military attacks against countries in the region which constitute a serious breach of international law."

Regarding Gaza, both leaders urged the withdrawal of Israeli forces "in accordance with the agreed arrangements." They also stressed the necessity for the urgent, safe, and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to the region, free from any conditions or restrictions. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) recently reported that approximately 1.4 million people in Gaza, representing about two-thirds of the population, are experiencing severe food insecurity.

Furthermore, France and Qatar reaffirmed their opposition to any annexation of the West Bank and called for an end to Israeli settlement policies and associated violence.

On the situation in Lebanon, the two nations expressed support for the complete implementation of the Trilateral Framework Agreement, which aims to restore Lebanese sovereignty, disarm Hezbollah, and secure a full Israeli withdrawal. They also voiced concerns about a potential security vacuum following the conclusion of the UN peacekeeping mission's mandate and advocated for continued international support for Lebanese authorities and armed forces.

Concerning Syria, Qatar and France indicated their readiness to collaborate on stabilization and economic recovery projects, in coordination with Syrian authorities.

Beyond regional diplomacy, Qatar and France committed to enhancing their cooperation in defense, security, and economic sectors. President Macron's tour, which included visits to Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia, was aimed at bolstering strategic and economic partnerships and supporting initiatives to foster regional stability and secure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.