Regulation

Israel and Hamas have agreed to implement the initial phase of a ceasefire agreement, based on a 20-point plan proposed by United States President Donald Trump. This plan aims to conclude the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Ceasefire Agreement Details

The agreement stipulates that Hamas and other Palestinian factions will release 20 Israeli captives and the bodies of 28 others currently in Gaza. In exchange, Israel will release over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, including those detained since the conflict began in October 2023.

The agreement was confirmed by both parties, although differing interpretations of the broader plan remain.

Negotiation Process

The announcement follows three days of indirect negotiations held in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. Delegations from Qatar, Turkiye, Egypt, and the US participated in these discussions.

The ceasefire is yet to be enacted, but the announcement has prompted reactions from several world leaders.

Statements from Leaders

US President Donald Trump

President Trump expressed pride in the agreement, emphasizing fair treatment for all parties involved. He acknowledged mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for their roles in reaching this agreement.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Prime Minister Netanyahu described the agreement as a significant day for Israel. He plans to seek government approval for the agreement and expressed gratitude to President Trump and the Israeli soldiers involved.

Hamas

Hamas appreciated the efforts of mediators and President Trump, calling for the full implementation of the agreement. They reiterated their commitment to the national rights and independence of their people.

Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ)

PIJ acknowledged the ceasefire as a result of sacrifices in Gaza, emphasizing the courage of Palestinian fighters. They recognized international efforts in securing the deal.

Qatar

Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced an agreement on the initial phase of the ceasefire, highlighting the release of hostages and prisoners and the entry of aid.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan

President Erdogan expressed satisfaction with the agreement and commended the efforts of President Trump, Qatar, and Egypt. He stressed Turkey’s commitment to monitoring the agreement’s implementation.

EU’s Foreign Affairs Chief Kaja Kallas

Kallas described the agreement as a breakthrough and a major diplomatic accomplishment, committing EU support for its implementation.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim

Prime Minister Ibrahim called the agreement a sign of hope following months of suffering and urged parties to pursue lasting peace.

Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

Prime Minister Albanese viewed the agreement as a beacon of hope and emphasized the potential for breaking the cycle of conflict.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres

Secretary-General Guterres welcomed the agreement and highlighted the need for a permanent ceasefire and humanitarian access. He stressed the importance of achieving a two-state solution.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer

Prime Minister Starmer urged the immediate and full implementation of the agreement, alongside lifting restrictions on humanitarian aid.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Modi welcomed the agreement, emphasizing its potential to foster lasting peace in the region.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters

Minister Peters called for the release of hostages by Hamas and the withdrawal of Israeli troops, urging continued efforts towards lasting peace.