Doha, 22 November 2023 (TDI): Global leaders praised the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, which includes a four-day halt to the conflict in Gaza and the release of hostages by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
The agreement involves freeing 50 civilian women and children who are currently hostages in the Palestinian enclave, in return for releasing several Palestinian women and children detained in Israeli prisons.
According to a US official, after five weeks of negotiations, Qatar, Egypt, and the US brokered a deal for a truce in the Gaza crisis. President Biden expressed gratitude to Qatar, and Egypt for their efforts in facilitating halting hostilities in Gaza. The White House statement also praised by the President.
Moreover, a US official said that three Americans, including three-year-old Abigail Mor Idan, among the 50 hostages earmarked for staggered release from Thursday.
On Wednesday, President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi expressed his satisfaction with the fruitful mediation efforts carried out with Qatar and the United States.
Additionally, Sisi’s office conveyed his approval of the proposed “exchange of captives for detainees” currently held in Israeli penitentiaries.
However, French President Macron expressed satisfaction with the agreement and his commitment to freeing all Hamas hostages. He emphasized the importance of the truce for aid delivery to Gaza. Foreign Minister Colonna praised the truce as a step towards peace and hoped the French hostages would be free soon.
Also Read: UN welcomes ceasefire in Gaza and Israel, commends Egypt
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen is optimistic that the temporary ceasefire will allow for more humanitarian aid to be delivered to Gaza. She has instructed the European Commission to intensify efforts in providing aid during this pause.
Martin Griffiths, the UN Relief Chief, welcomed the agreement between Israel and Hamas, expressing his hope that it brings relief to the people of Gaza and Israel. He also emphasized the potential relief for the hostages, detainees, and their families slated for release.
Furthermore, Annalena Baerbock, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany also sees the agreement as a breakthrough and emphasizes the importance of sending vital aid to Gaza.
David Cameron, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom praised the deal as a significant step and urged all parties to ensure its full implementation. while, Russia called it a positive development and China expressed hope that it would alleviate the humanitarian crisis and ease tensions.
