A sign of peace was signed by the Egyptian state under the auspices of Sharm El-Sheikh, a city historically known as a meeting point for conflicting parties who entered with conflicting interests and complex agendas but left with agreed terms and maps paving the way for de-escalation. This was repeated over the past two days with the achievement of a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, widely praised internationally for Cairo’s role, amid celebrations of the approaching peace that had been absent from Gaza for over two years during which nearly 70,000 martyrs fell at the hands of the occupation forces.

World leaders praised the international diplomatic efforts that contributed to reaching this agreement, emphasizing the importance of its immediate and comprehensive implementation to protect civilians and create conditions for lasting peace.

European Union Foreign Policy Chief, Kaya Kallas, said, “The agreement between Israel and Hamas on the first phase of the ceasefire is a very big step forward,” adding, “This day marks the end of a devastating war and the release of all prisoners.” She added, “We support full implementation of the agreement,” praising “the diplomatic efforts made to reach this day,” concluding, “We in the EU appreciate President Trump’s announcement and efforts and will continue to support the political path towards peace in Gaza based on his plan.”

In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the agreement on the first phase of President Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza, praising the efforts of Egypt, Qatar, the United States, and Turkey in the peace process.

Starmer said in a statement, “I welcome the news of the agreement on the first phase of President Trump’s peace plan for Gaza,” adding that “this agreement must now be fully implemented without delay, with the immediate lifting of all restrictions on life-saving humanitarian aid to Gaza.”

The British Prime Minister added that this would be a moment of deep relief, especially for hostages and their families and the civilian population in Gaza, thanking the US, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey for their “tireless” diplomatic efforts.

Starmer added, “We call on all parties to fulfill their commitments, end the war, build the foundations for a just and lasting end to the conflict, and a sustainable path towards lasting peace.”

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani welcomed the agreement on the first phase of President Donald Trump’s ceasefire plan in Gaza, stating that “Rome is ready to send forces if peacekeeping troops are needed.”

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the agreement as exceptional news, praising President Donald Trump’s role in mediation and also thanking Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey.

Meloni said, “I would like to thank President Trump for his relentless efforts to end the conflict in Gaza, and I thank the mediators – Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey – for their decisive efforts to reach this positive outcome.”

In Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong said in a joint statement, “After more than two years of conflict, hostage-taking, and heavy civilian losses, this represents a crucial step towards peace.” They added, “We urge all parties to respect the terms of the plan.”

From New Zealand, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said, “President Trump’s announcement is a turning point in a conflict that has claimed many lives. New Zealand welcomes this news and hopes it provides a platform for a lasting solution allowing future generations to live in peace and security.”

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez wrote on platform X: “I hope this is the beginning of a just and lasting peace. It is time for dialogue, supporting civilians, and looking to the future with hope but also with justice and memory, so that the atrocities we witnessed never repeat.”

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said in an interview with national radio RNE: “A happy morning where doors of hope open. This agreement may not be final, but it is an important step. The mere release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, including minors, is an achievement in itself.”

In Canada, Prime Minister Mark Carney said, “Congratulations to President Donald Trump on his wise leadership, and thanks to Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey for their tireless work supporting the negotiations.”

In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed hope that the release of hostages and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza’s population would alleviate civilian suffering and create conditions for lasting peace in the region.

From Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, “The announcement of an agreement ending the genocide in Gaza represents a historic opportunity to ensure lasting peace in the Middle East.”

In Argentina, President Javier Milei congratulated his American counterpart, describing the agreement as historic and an exceptional contribution to international peace.

Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said, “I welcome the announcement of an agreement securing a ceasefire and the release of prisoners in Gaza, based on the proposal presented by President Donald Trump.”

The Chinese government called for the fastest possible implementation of a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire in Gaza following the agreement between Israel and Hamas to activate the first phase of the Gaza future plan proposed by President Trump. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiaquan said that implementing the ceasefire is necessary to effectively alleviate the humanitarian crisis and reduce regional tensions, stressing that Beijing supports the principle of Palestinian self-rule in Palestine and encourages the implementation of the two-state solution.

He also praised the diplomatic efforts made by the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey in mediating the agreement. He added, “I urge all concerned parties to fully comply with the terms of the agreement, ensuring it is implemented in a dignified and safe manner that guarantees a permanent ceasefire.”