Ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas receives international support as humanitarian crisis continues.
BRUSSELS – The European Union has expressed its support for a ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas, aimed at halting a 15-month conflict that has resulted in significant humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
EU High Representative Kaja Kallas welcomed the agreement, emphasizing the importance of addressing the humanitarian needs of Gazan civilians and reuniting hostages with their families.
The deal is expected to enable humanitarian aid to reach affected areas and facilitate the release of hostages held by Hamas.
The ceasefire agreement comes after extensive negotiations mediated by Qatar and Egypt, with backing from the United States.
The agreement was announced just before the inauguration of U.S. President-elect
Donald Trump, who, alongside outgoing President
Joe Biden, played a role in the mediation efforts.
Under the terms of the agreement, Israel is to release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Israeli hostages taken during the conflict.
The phased plan includes an initial cessation of hostilities, with potential for prisoners to be exchanged, followed by humanitarian relief efforts, and a more comprehensive resolution involving troop withdrawals and reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
Despite the announcement, the situation remains tense.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has delayed formal approval of the agreement, citing alleged retractions by Hamas on certain aspects of the deal.
This has resulted in further Israeli airstrikes, with Gazan authorities reporting a renewed death toll resulting from the continued hostilities.
The European Union has pledged a humanitarian aid package of €120 million to support those affected in Gaza, focusing on addressing immediate needs such as food, water, and shelter.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that this aid aims to alleviate the grim humanitarian situation on the ground.
European leaders have called for the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement as a crucial step towards regional stability.
However, challenges remain in ensuring the deal holds, given the complex political dynamics within Israel and the conflicting interests involved.
The development follows a backdrop of a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where over 46,000 residents have been reported dead due to ongoing conflicts, and hundreds of thousands have been displaced.
International observers continue to stress the necessity of a lasting peace in the region.