The international community breathed a sigh of relief as a historic ceasefire deal was reached between Hamas and Israel to end the 15-month-long war in Gaza. The deal, brokered by the US, Qatar, and Egypt, includes a phased approach that will start with a six-week initial ceasefire phase, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the release of hostages by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
US President Joe Biden confirmed the deal, stating that the ceasefire would halt fighting in Gaza and allow for humanitarian aid to reach Palestinian civilians. The deal also aims to reunite hostages with their families. Former President Donald Trump expressed satisfaction over the deal, emphasizing that the US would work to ensure Gaza never becomes a terrorist safe haven again.
UN Secretary General António Guterres welcomed the agreement and stated that the UN would support its implementation. Leaders from countries such as Turkey, Egypt, and Germany also praised the deal, with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan calling it a key step for regional stability and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi urging swift humanitarian aid delivery.
Hamas, in a statement by acting Gaza chief Khalil al-Hayya, maintained that Israel had failed to achieve its objectives in Gaza, while emphasizing that they would neither forgive nor forget.
