Geneva: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has praised the newly announced truce and hostage release agreement in Gaza, calling it an important step toward peace. The deal is based on a proposal led by US President Donald Trump and mediated by the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey.
In a statement on X, Guterres urged all sides to fully respect the agreement, stressing that “the conflict must end permanently” and that all captives must be released “in a civilized manner.” He insisted that humanitarian and commercial supplies must be allowed into Gaza “immediately and without obstruction.”
Guterres said the UN will support the full implementation of the agreement and increase humanitarian aid. “We will promote recovery and reconstruction efforts in Gaza,” he added, urging all parties to use this moment to create a “credible political path” that leads to a two-state solution, peace, and security for both Israelis and Palestinians. “Never have the stakes been higher,” he warned.
Mediators Confirm First Phase of Ceasefire
Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari confirmed that all terms and procedures for the first phase of the ceasefire have been finalized. The deal includes the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners and the entry of aid into Gaza. Full details will be announced soon, he said.
Netanyahu and Hamas React
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it “a great day for Israel” and said his government would approve the deal to “bring our kidnapped people home.” He thanked President Trump and Israeli security forces for their efforts.
Hamas, in its first official comment, said the agreement includes “an end to the war on Gaza, withdrawal of occupation forces, entry of aid, and a prisoner exchange.” The group urged international mediators to ensure Israel fully implements the terms.
With global attention focused on the region, the agreement is being seen as a potential turning point in one of the world’s most prolonged conflicts.
