Israel and Hamas have reportedly reached a ceasefire agreement to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. As part of this deal, the remaining Israeli hostages held in Gaza will be released. The agreement comes after intensive negotiations over several days.
Keir Starmer, the UK’s Labour Party leader, described the announcement as “long-overdue news” for both Israelis and Palestinians.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that the deal was not finalized but suggested it could be confirmed within hours. Netanyahu’s office stated that Hamas had “caved in at the last moment,” paving the way for a resolution to the 15-month conflict.
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The war was sparked on October 7, 2023, by a deadly attack on Israeli civilians carried out by Hamas militants. Former U.S. President Donald Trump took credit for the ceasefire, attributing the breakthrough to the influence of his administration and its commitment to fostering peace.
He said: “This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November, as it signalled to the entire World that my Administration would seek Peace and negotiate deals to ensure the safety of all Americans, and our Allies. I am thrilled American and Israeli hostages will be returning home to be reunited with their families and loved ones.
“With this deal in place, my National Security team, through the efforts of Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, will continue to work closely with Israel and our Allies to make sure Gaza NEVER again becomes a terrorist safe haven.
“We will continue promoting PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH throughout the region, as we build upon the momentum of this ceasefire to further expand the Historic Abraham Accords. This is only the beginning of great things to come for America, and indeed, the World”
Statements from Key Figures following the Israel and Hamas Ceasefire Deal
Keir Starmer
Starmer acknowledged the heavy toll the conflict has taken, emphasizing the suffering endured by both Israelis and Palestinians. He praised the deal for facilitating the return of hostages and highlighted the importance of addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza.
“After months of devastating bloodshed and countless lives lost, this is the long-overdue news that the Israeli and Palestinian people have desperately been waiting for.
“They have borne the brunt of this conflict – triggered by the brutal terrorists of Hamas, who committed the deadliest massacre of Jewish people since the Holocaust on October 7.
“The hostages, who were brutally ripped from their homes on that day and held captive in unimaginable conditions ever since, can now finally return to their families. But we should also use this moment to pay tribute to those who won’t make it home – including the British people who were murdered by Hamas. We will continue to mourn and remember them.
“For the innocent Palestinians whose homes turned into a warzone overnight and the many who have lost their lives, this ceasefire must allow for a huge surge in humanitarian aid, which is so desperately needed to end the suffering in Gaza.
“And then our attention must turn to how we secure a permanently better future for the Israeli and Palestinian people – grounded in a two-state solution that will guarantee security and stability for Israel, alongside a sovereign and viable Palestine state.
“The UK and its allies will continue to be at the forefront of these crucial efforts to break the cycle of violence and secure long-term peace in the Middle East.”
Ed Davey
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey expressed cautious optimism, calling the ceasefire “a moment of hope after months of despair.” He stressed the urgency of delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza and working towards a permanent resolution.
Davey reiterated the need for a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders to provide lasting dignity and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.
Helen McEachern
Helen McEachern, CEO of Care International UK, referred to the ceasefire as “a first step in alleviating the overwhelming suffering.” She urged the international community to ensure the truce evolves into a sustained and permanent peace agreement.
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The post Israel and Hamas Reach Ceasefire Agreement With Hostages To Be Released appeared first on SurgeZirc UK.
