World leaders have expressed their backing for the ceasefire and hostage deal agreed upon by Israel and Hamas, as celebrations erupted in cities worldwide, including Berlin, Tunis, Tunisia, and Jordan’s capital, Amman.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres hailed the agreement as a “critical first step” and urged all parties to honor their commitments and fully implement the deal. He also stated that the UN stands ready to assist in the implementation process.
European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen and EU high representative for foreign affairs Kaja Kallas both welcomed the agreement, with Kallas describing it as a “major, positive breakthrough toward ending the violence.”
Here is a summary of some of the international reactions:
Turkey: The Foreign Ministry affirmed Turkey’s continued support for the Palestinian people and called for immediate peace negotiations to establish an independent State of Palestine.
Lebanon: Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati characterized the deal as ending a “bloody chapter” in Palestinian history and expressed hope for a sustainable ceasefire leading to a final resolution of the Palestinian issue.
Australia: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised the deal as a constructive step toward peace and stability in the region, expressing condolences for the civilian casualties and humanitarian workers affected by the conflict.
Japan: Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi lauded the agreement as a significant step toward alleviating the humanitarian crisis and stabilizing the situation, reaffirming Japan’s commitment to supporting reconstruction and governance in Gaza.
South Africa: The South African government welcomed the ceasefire and called for the implementation of a just and lasting peace that upholds the human rights of both Palestinians and Israelis. They emphasized the need for a contiguous, independent, and viable Palestinian state as part of a just peace settlement.
