Brussels: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the European Union's comprehensive endorsement of the ceasefire plan for Gaza, facilitated through cooperation among the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Trkiye. Von der Leyen emphasized the significance of the agreement, noting its potential to mark a historical milestone in the region's peace efforts.

According to Anadolu Agency, von der Leyen communicated the EU's readiness to assist in the success of the peace initiative by utilizing all available resources, particularly in the areas of governance and reform within the Palestinian Authority. She reiterated the EU's commitment to being an active participant in the Palestinian Donors Group and expressed intentions to allocate EU funds for the reconstruction efforts in Gaza.

US President Donald Trump previously disclosed that Israel and Hamas had consented to the initial phase of his 20-point ceasefire strategy, which commenced on Friday. This phase includes the exchange of prisoners and the phased withdrawal of Israeli military presence from the Gaza region. The subsequent phase aims to establish a new governing body in Gaza, excluding Hamas, alongside the deployment of a multinational peacekeeping force and efforts to disarm Hamas militants.

The conflict, which escalated in October 2023, has resulted in the deaths of over 67,800 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, rendering Gaza nearly inhabitable. The ceasefire plan is seen as a crucial step toward stabilizing the region and addressing the humanitarian crisis.