This marks what could be a major step towards ending more than two years of devastating conflict in Gaza.
Trump said on Wednesday that both sides had “signed off” on the initial stage of his 20-point peace framework following days of intensive indirect negotiations in Egypt. Under the agreement, Hamas will release all remaining hostages held inside Gaza “very soon,” while Israel has agreed to a phased withdrawal of its ground forces to “an agreed-upon line.”
Hamas confirmed its commitment to the deal and called on the international community to ensure Israel abides by its terms. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described it as a “great day for Israel,” noting that his cabinet would meet on Thursday to approve the first phase, which includes an immediate ceasefire.
“I welcome the announcement of an agreement to secure a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza, based on the proposal put forward by Trump,” said Guterres in a statement.
He commended the diplomatic efforts of the US, Qatar, Egypt and Türkiye in brokering what he described as a “desperately needed breakthrough.”
Under the US plan, the UN and the Red Crescent will oversee the entry and distribution of humanitarian supplies into Gaza. Guterres said the world body stood ready to fully support the implementation of the phased agreement and help advance recovery and reconstruction efforts across the war-ravaged enclave.
“The fighting must stop once and for all,” he stressed. “Immediate and unimpeded entry of humanitarian supplies and essential commercial materials into Gaza must be ensured. The suffering must end.”
The UN chief urged all parties to “seize this momentous opportunity” to pave the way for a permanent ceasefire and a credible political process.
“This must lead towards ending the occupation, recognising the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people, and achieving a two-State solution that enables Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security,” he said.
“The stakes have never been higher.”
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
