Rome: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Thursday described the Israel-Hamas agreement on the first phase of a Gaza ceasefire plan as "extraordinary news," and urged all parties to ensure its swift implementation.

According to Anadolu Agency, Meloni emphasized the significance of the agreement reached in Egypt, which is a crucial step in implementing President Donald Trump's Peace Plan. She noted that the agreement sets the stage for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces along agreed lines. Expressing gratitude towards US President Donald Trump for his efforts to end the conflict, Meloni also acknowledged the vital roles played by mediators Egypt, Qatar, and Trkiye.

Meloni highlighted the opportunity the agreement presents to end the ongoing conflict, urging all parties involved to adhere to the measures agreed upon and to expedite the implementation of subsequent steps detailed in the Peace Plan. She reiterated Italy's commitment to supporting the mediators' efforts and expressed readiness to contribute to Gaza's stabilization, reconstruction, and development.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also expressed his approval of the agreement, describing it as "great news." He reaffirmed Italy's longstanding support for the US plan and indicated that Italy is prepared to assist in consolidating the ceasefire, delivering new humanitarian aid, and participating in Gaza's reconstruction.

Tajani further stated that Italy is willing to send troops if an international peacekeeping force is established to reunify Palestine. These remarks followed President Trump's announcement that Israel and Hamas had agreed to the first phase of a US-proposed Gaza deal.

The 20-point plan, announced on September 29, includes the release of all Israeli captives in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a ceasefire, the disarmament of Hamas, and the rebuilding of Gaza. Since October 2023, Israeli attacks have resulted in the deaths of nearly 67,200 Palestinians in the enclave, with the majority being women and children. The relentless bombardment has rendered Gaza largely uninhabitable, leading to widespread starvation and disease.