Positive reactions to the ceasefire agreement in Gaza continue!
Many countries have welcomed the ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas and emphasized the need to continue diplomatic efforts to improve the humanitarian situation in the region.
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In a written statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, it was stated that the ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement reached between Israel and Hamas was welcomed.
The statement emphasized the hope that the agreement would provide safe and sustained humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, noting that India has "consistently called for the release of all hostages, a ceasefire, and a return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy."
JAPAN
According to Kyodo news, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi stated at a press conference that they welcomed the agreement, calling it "an important step toward improving humanitarian conditions (in Gaza) and calming the situation, as Japan has also requested."
Hayashi expressed that Japan will continue to maintain close communication with the relevant parties and will exert diplomatic efforts for a two-state solution and long-term peace and stability in the region, saying, "We appreciate the efforts made by the relevant parties to reach an agreement and we want it to be implemented sincerely and steadily."
SOUTH KOREA
The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs also announced that it welcomed the ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas.
In a written statement from the ministry, it was expressed that they hope for the full and swift implementation of the agreement, the release of all hostages, and the improvement of the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The statement noted that discussions on diplomatic solutions for regional peace and stability are expected to gain momentum, and conveyed that South Korea will continue to participate in the international community's efforts to establish and promote peace in the Middle East.
AUSTRALIA
Australia announced that it welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire and hostage agreement in Gaza following months of conflict and civilian casualties.
In a written statement from the Prime Minister's office, it was pointed out that Australia has been part of international calls for a ceasefire and the release of hostages, stating, "We call on all parties to ensure the immediate release of hostages, the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to all parts of Gaza, compliance with the terms of the ceasefire, and the preservation of a lasting peace."
The statement noted that the agreement is a constructive step toward peace and stability in the region, adding, "Australia will continue to work with the international community for a two-state solution."
The statement expressed hope that the process would bring the Palestinian people opportunities for reconstruction, governance reform, and self-determination, and conveyed that they would continue to act in partnership with the international community to support the urgent humanitarian needs of the people of Gaza.
NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced that his country welcomes the ceasefire agreement that will end the conflict in Gaza.
In a written statement from the ministry, it was assessed that, "Over the past 15 months, this conflict has caused unimaginable human suffering. We appreciate the efforts of everyone involved in the negotiations, especially the US, Qatar, and Egypt, to end this suffering."
The statement emphasized that the full implementation of the terms of the agreement, the protection of civilians, and efforts to release hostages must be priorities, adding, "Now, a massive, rapid, and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid must be provided to Gaza. We call on the parties to take meaningful steps toward a two-state solution to achieve a lasting and sustainable peace. Political will is the key to ensuring that history does not repeat itself."
PAKISTAN
In a written statement from the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was said, "We welcome the ceasefire reached in Gaza and call for its immediate and full implementation."
The statement warned that the ceasefire must be permanent and lead to an increase in humanitarian aid.
The statement noted that the indiscriminate use of force by Israeli occupation forces has caused unprecedented loss of life and property and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of innocent Palestinian civilians, and pointed out that Israel's expansionist plans have destabilized the entire region.
In the statement, Pakistan reiterated its support for finding a just, comprehensive, and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue and for the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian State based on the 1967 borders with Jerusalem as its capital.
CANADA
Canada also announced that it welcomed the ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement, emphasizing that this process is a critical step toward lasting peace and a two-state solution for Israelis, Palestinians, and everyone in the region.
The statement expressed that the world witnessed images of unspeakable cruelty on October 7, 2023, stating, "The scale of civilian casualties since October 7 is heartbreaking. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic. Tens of thousands of civilians have been killed, millions have been displaced, and humanitarian aid workers have been put at risk."
Stating that while the ceasefire offers hope for the future, there is still much work to be done, and that all hostages must be released and the safe, rapid, and unhindered passage of humanitarian aid to civilians must be increased, the statement concluded, "Canada will continue to work toward a two-state solution where Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace, dignity, and security within internationally recognized borders."
