Beijing: China on Thursday urged for a 'comprehensive and a permanent' ceasefire in Gaza following an announcement by US President Donald Trump that Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas have agreed to the initial phase of a US-mediated Gaza deal.

According to Anadolu Agency, China expressed hope for a swift realization of a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing the need to alleviate the humanitarian crisis and reduce regional tensions. Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun stated China's position, advocating for Palestinians to govern Palestine and supporting the two-state solution.

Guo reiterated China's readiness to collaborate with the international community to pursue a comprehensive, just, and lasting resolution to the Palestinian issues, aiming for a peaceful and stable Middle East.

Trump announced the deal on his Truth Social platform, highlighting that both Israel and Hamas had agreed to the first phase of the US Peace Plan. The agreement includes the release of hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops to a mutually agreed line, marking initial steps towards enduring peace. Trump assured that all parties involved would be treated equitably.

Describing the moment as a significant achievement for the Arab and Muslim world, Israel, neighboring countries, and the US, Trump extended gratitude to all mediators, including Trkiye, for facilitating the historic event. He commended the efforts of those involved, calling them peacemakers.

Indirect discussions between Israel and Hamas have been ongoing in Egypt since Monday, focusing on the implementation of Trump's plan to resolve the conflict. The 20-point plan, unveiled on September 29, outlines the release of Israeli captives in Gaza, a ceasefire, and the disarmament of Hamas, which the Palestinian group has agreed to in principle.

Since October 2023, Israeli attacks have resulted in the deaths of nearly 67,200 Palestinians in Gaza, predominantly women and children, severely impacting the region's habitability.