Tel aviv: Asian nations on Thursday welcomed the US-proposed Gaza deal as a ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas took effect, marking the second such agreement since Tel Aviv initiated military actions against the besieged coastal enclave.
According to Anadolu Agency, US President Donald Trump announced late Wednesday that both Israel and Hamas had agreed to the first phase of a plan aimed at ending hostilities in Gaza. Hamas confirmed early Thursday its acceptance of the plan, expressing appreciation for Trump's efforts alongside those of Trkiye, Qatar, and Egypt.
The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas was finalized early Thursday in Egypt's Sharm el-Sheikh based on Trump's plan and subsequently took effect. The deal was announced following days of negotiations in the Red Sea city. Since October 2023, Israeli attacks have resulted in nearly 67,200 Palestinian deaths in Gaza, primarily women and children, rendering the enclave largely uninhabitable. A previous ceasefire was in place in January this year but was disrupted by Israeli actions in March.
Reacting to the US' initiative, China called for a 'comprehensive and permanent' ceasefire to effectively alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and reduce regional tensions. China upholds the principle of Palestinians governing Palestine and advocates for a two-state solution, as stated by Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun in Beijing.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed New Delhi's support for the agreement, hoping that it will lead to the release of hostages, enhanced humanitarian assistance, and pave the way for enduring peace. Bangladesh also supported the ongoing dialogue, expecting an immediate ceasefire and the restoration of humanitarian aid.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the importance of respecting the plan's terms, given the devastating loss of civilian life and prolonged conflict. Albanese thanked Trump and acknowledged the roles of Egypt, Qatar, and Trkiye in brokering the agreement. He reiterated Australia's commitment to contributing to a just and lasting two-state solution.
Japan echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the need for hostages' release, lasting peace, and fundamental improvement in Gaza's humanitarian situation. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi commended the diplomatic efforts and called for a steady execution of the agreement.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the agreement as a "historic opportunity" to secure lasting peace and condemned recent provocations at Masjid Al Aqsa. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed solidarity with the Palestinian quest for justice, urging all parties to pursue peace earnestly.
Indonesia and New Zealand also welcomed the ceasefire, viewing it as a critical step toward ending hostilities and achieving lasting peace. Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters both emphasized the importance of continuing efforts towards a comprehensive resolution.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, leader of the Hurriyat Conference in Indian-administered Kashmir, welcomed the ceasefire as much-needed relief for Palestinians, despite viewing the peace deal as unfair. He called for true peace through the restoration of Palestinian rights and homeland.