Shafaq News – Gaza (Updated at 16:22)
Arab and Palestinian leaders on Thursday welcomed US President Donald Trump’s announcement that Israel and Hamas had signed the first phase of a US-brokered ceasefire agreement.
Hamas
In a statement, Hamas acknowledged Washington’s role in achieving the ceasefire, expressing appreciation to Qatar, Egypt, and Turkiye for facilitating the agreement and securing Israel’s full withdrawal from Gaza. The group urged the US and other guarantor states to ensure Israel complies with all obligations and avoids obstructing implementation.
Palestinian Islamic Jihad
Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) described the outcome as the result of “enormous sacrifice,” insisting it was achieved through resistance rather than diplomacy.
Palestinian Authority
President Mahmoud Abbas urged both sides to swiftly implement its terms, emphasizing the immediate release of hostages and prisoners and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. He commended the mediation efforts led by Trump, alongside Qatar, Egypt, and Turkiye, while calling on the international community to hold Israel accountable for settlement expansion and ongoing provocations in the West Bank.
Qatar
Qatar confirmed that the first phase covers the ceasefire, prisoner exchanges, and humanitarian corridors. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari said on X that full implementation mechanisms had been agreed upon and that further details would be announced shortly.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry expressed hope the deal would lead to “a full Israeli withdrawal” and “urgent action to alleviate the humanitarian suffering,” calling for restoring stability and advancing a just peace based on the two-state solution.
Egypt
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi hailed the agreement as a “historic moment” after “two years of suffering,” saying it “not only closes the chapter of war but also opens the door of hope for a future built on justice and stability.”
Syria
Syria’s Foreign Ministry voiced hope that the ceasefire will end civilian suffering, facilitate urgent humanitarian aid, and lay the groundwork for broader regional stability.