The emir of Qatar has spoken of “a race against time” to secure hostage releases as part of diplomatic efforts for a cease-fire in Gaza. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani was speaking Tuesday on a state visit to France. His country plays a key role in ongoing diplomatic efforts to achieve a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of hostages. His meetings with President Emmanuel Macron came as negotiators from the United States, Egypt and Qatar have been working to broker a cease-fire deal in which Hamas would free some of the dozens of hostages it holds in exchange for Israel’s release of Palestinian prisoners and a six-week halt in the fighting.
