World Leaders React to Historic Gaza Ceasefire Agreement
However, formal approval from Israel's cabinet is still pending on ceasefire agreement

World leaders have expressed a range of reactions to the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which aims to end over 15 months of conflict in Gaza.
The deal, announced on January 15, 2025, includes a 42-day ceasefire and provisions for the release of hostages.
The agreement is set to begin on January 19, with expectations for significant humanitarian aid flows into Gaza and a phased release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian detainees. However, formal approval from Israel’s cabinet is still pending, highlighting ongoing political complexities within Israel itself.
Joe Biden (U.S. President): Biden confirmed the ceasefire and emphasized its significance in stopping the violence and facilitating the return of hostages. He expressed hope for a credible pathway to Palestinian statehood and normalization of relations between Israel and its Arab neighbours, including Saudi Arabia.
Donald Trump (U.S. President-Elect): Trump welcomed the agreement via social media, stating that hostages would soon be released. He also mentioned that his National Security team would work to prevent Gaza from becoming a terrorist safe haven.
Antonio Guterres (UN Secretary-General): Guterres highlighted the UN’s readiness to support the implementation of the ceasefire and stressed the need for humanitarian aid access in Gaza. He called for all parties to uphold their commitments under the deal to alleviate the suffering caused by the conflict.
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (President of Turkey): Erdoğan expressed hope that the ceasefire would benefit not only the region but also humanity at large, particularly for Palestinians. He praised those who defended their land against Israeli attacks.
Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi (Egyptian President): Al-Sisi welcomed the ceasefire and underscored the urgency of delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza swiftly.
Various global leaders and organizations have shown cautious optimism regarding the ceasefire’s potential to facilitate humanitarian relief and pave the way for longer-term peace efforts. The Australian government also welcomed the announcement but reiterated its stance on Palestinian statehood.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese: Albanese termed the ceasefire a constructive step toward peace but also stressed that Hamas should not have a role in Gaza’s future governance.
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry: Saudi Arabia welcomed the deal, thanking the mediating countries and emphasizing the need for full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a resolution of the core issues of the conflict.
Mohammed Abdulsalam, Spokesperson for Yemen’s Houthis: Abdulsalam saluted Gaza’s resilience and criticized Israel’s occupation, calling it a regional threat.
South African Government: South Africa welcomed the ceasefire and condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza. It called for a just peace solution that respects the rights of both Palestinians and Israelis.