In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, a ceasefire agreement in Gaza has been brokered with the assistance of the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, backed by Germany. This agreement, welcomed by international leaders, signifies a hopeful turn in the long-standing conflict in the region. Among the notable figures expressing their approval are Pope Francis, U.S. President Joe Biden, and UK Labour leader Keir Starmer. The ceasefire follows the release of three female hostages by Hamas to the Israel Defense Forces, facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross. Reports confirm that the hostages are in good health.
The ceasefire marks a new chapter for Gaza, with several hundred aid trucks anticipated to enter the region soon. President Joe Biden highlighted the opportunity for people in Gaza to "breathe again without fear of bombs," emphasizing the relief this brings after prolonged suffering. The UK has also pledged its readiness to support efforts towards a permanent and peaceful solution to the conflict.
“After so much pain, death and loss of life, today the guns in Gaza have gone silent,” – Joe Biden
The collaboration between the US and Israel played a pivotal role in brokering this ceasefire. President Biden noted the unprecedented level of cooperation with aides from former President Donald Trump's team, describing it as both necessary and effective. He added that achieving success would require "persistence" and "the belief in diplomacy backed by deterrence."
“I was pleased to have our team speak as one voice in the final days. It was both necessary and effective and unprecedented” – Joe Biden
However, challenges remain as Trump's incoming national security adviser, Mike Waltz, cautioned that if Hamas deviates from the ceasefire terms, the US will fully support Israel's response. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar also voiced concerns about regional instability should Hamas continue to govern Gaza. He asserted that a lasting ceasefire would necessitate dismantling Hamas as a military and ruling entity.
“If Hamas reneges on this deal and Hamas backs out, moves the goalpost, what have you, we will support Israel in doing what it has to do” – Mike Waltz
Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the ceasefire as a "day of joy" after enduring civilian suffering. He urged continued momentum towards establishing a Palestinian state capable of coexisting peacefully with Israel.
“We should use the momentum now to work toward a Palestinian state that can peacefully coexist with the state of Israel” – Olaf Scholz
The prospect of further diplomatic progress remains on the horizon. Waltz expressed optimism about potentially brokering a normalization deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia under the Abraham Accords initiative. Meanwhile, Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani plans to visit the region for discussions with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa, aiming to further peace efforts.
“The UK stands ready to do everything it can to support a permanent and peaceful solution” – Mike Waltz