World leaders have welcomed the announcement of a long-awaited ceasefire agreement in Gaza, marking what many described as a historic turning point in a conflict that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions over the past two years.
The agreement, brokered with the assistance of the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye, includes the release of hostages and the provision of increased humanitarian aid to Gaza’s devastated population.
United Kingdom:
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the ceasefire “a moment of profound relief,” adding that it would be felt globally, especially by “the hostages, their families, and the civilian population of Gaza, who have all endured unimaginable suffering over the last two years,” according to Britain’s Press Association.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres:
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the urgent need for peace, stating, “I urge both parties to fully adhere to the terms of the agreement.” He called for the dignified release of all hostages and underscored the importance of securing a permanent ceasefire. “The war must be brought to an end once and for all,” he declared, stressing that only through sustained commitment can lasting peace be achieved.
Canada:
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney praised the role of U.S. President Donald Trump in brokering the deal. “Congratulations to President Trump for his essential leadership and thank you to Qatar, Egypt and Türkiye for their tireless work to support the negotiations,” Carney said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “I am relieved that the hostages will soon be reunited with their families.”
India:
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed hope that the agreement would pave the way for lasting peace. “We hope the release of the hostages and increased humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza will bring respite to them and lead toward a durable resolution,” he told Reuters.
Pakistan:
In a strong statement, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the ceasefire as “a historic opportunity to secure lasting peace in the Middle East.” Writing on X, he added that the agreement would “bring an end to the genocide in Gaza.”
Australia:
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong issued a joint statement calling the deal “a much-needed step towards peace” following “more than two years of conflict, hostages held, and a devastating loss of civilian life.” They urged all parties involved to “respect the terms of the plan.”
New Zealand:
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called the ceasefire “a watershed moment” and welcomed the announcement by President Trump. “This conflict has killed too many. New Zealand hopes this provides a platform for a lasting solution where future generations of Israelis and Palestinians live in peace and security,” he posted on X.
Argentina:
Argentine President Javier Milei also praised Trump’s role, calling the agreement “historic” and an “extraordinary contribution to international peace,” in a post on X.
