JOHN Swinney has said it is his “sincere hope” that the beginning of a ceasefire in Gaza marks the beginning of a “long-term political solution in the Middle East”.
A ceasefire due to begin on Sunday morning was delayed as Israel said it had not received the names of the hostages set to be released by Hamas.
The truce eventually started at 11.15am local time with Romi Gonen, 24, Emily Damari, 28 and Doron Steinbrecher, 31, all released.
In a statement, Swinney said: “It is my sincere hope that this ceasefire marks the start of a long-term political solution in the Middle East.
“I welcome the return of the hostages to their families who are being released as part of the ceasefire deal.
“The agreement is also long overdue for the people of Gaza who have endured unimaginable suffering over the past 15 months.
“There is still significant work required to ensure peace and security across the region.
“The focus must now be on removing all obstacles to delivery of humanitarian aid to those across Gaza who so badly need it.”
Keir Starmer also welcomed the news that three hostages were returned, including Damari who is a British citizen.
In a statement on Sunday afternoon, the Prime Minister (below) said: “The release of three hostages today is wonderful and long-overdue news after months of agony for them and their families.
“Among them is British citizen Emily Damari, who will now be reunited with her family, including her mother Amanda who has never stopped her tireless fight to bring her daughter home.
“I wish them all the very best as they begin the road to recovery after the intolerable trauma they have experienced. We stand ready to offer assistance and support.
“However, today also represents another day of suffering for those who haven’t made it home yet – so while this ceasefire deal should be welcomed, we must not forget about those who remain in captivity under Hamas.
“We must now see the remaining phases of the ceasefire deal implemented in full and on schedule, including the release of those remaining hostages and a surge of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
“The UK stands ready to do everything it can to support a permanent and peaceful solution.”
