MOSCOW, (TDI): Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Thursday expressed support for the Gaza ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel, voicing hope that it would lead to lasting peace and normalization in the region.
“We hope the implementation of this agreement will contribute to the sustainable stabilization of Gaza, enable the return of displaced persons, and support the reconstruction of infrastructure damaged during the conflict,” Zakharova said during a press briefing in Moscow.
She highlighted Russia’s consistent calls for a cease-fire and the provision of humanitarian aid since the crisis began in Gaza in the fall of 2023.
“Unfortunately, efforts to pass a resolution in the UN Security Council incorporating these priorities were blocked by the US, whose stance on this matter has been one-sided and unconstructive,” Zakharova stated.
The cease-fire agreement, set to take effect on Sunday, includes the cessation of hostilities in Gaza, the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, and significant increases in the delivery of essential supplies, including food, fuel, and medicine, to residents of the enclave.
Zakharova commended the mediating roles of Qatar and Egypt, emphasizing their diplomatic contributions to achieving the agreement. She noted that the US joined the peace efforts in the final stages.
“These achievements are largely due to the persistent and patient efforts of Qatari and Egyptian mediators, whose contributions deserve the highest recognition,” she said.
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The agreement also facilitates the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, with Zakharova expressing optimism that Russian citizen Alexander Tufanov, currently in Gaza, would be among those freed.
Russia views the cease-fire as a potential foundation for broader regional stability, Zakharova added, mentioning other Middle Eastern areas of concern, including Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen.
“We believe this agreement creates an opportunity for a comprehensive political solution to the Palestinian issue, guided by international legal principles,” Zakharova said.
She reiterated Moscow’s support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, coexisting peacefully with Israel.
Russia maintains that the two-state solution, endorsed by UN resolutions, remains the only viable path to enduring peace in the Middle East.
Also Read: Hamas Approves Gaza Truce Deal: Reports
Zakharova also shared updates on recent discussions between Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov and Hamas representatives. The talks included expressions of gratitude for Russia’s support of Palestinian rights and its commitment to a just resolution of the conflict.
