Thu Jan 16 11:27:50 UTC 2025: ## EU Welcomes Gaza Ceasefire, Urges Full Implementation
**Brussels/Jerusalem –** High-ranking European Union officials have welcomed a landmark ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, urging both sides to fully implement the deal. The agreement, brokered by Qatar and the US, involves a phased release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the ceasefire as a “major, positive breakthrough towards ending the violence,” expressing hope for lasting stability in the region. She and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, emphasized the importance of full implementation of the agreement as a crucial step towards a lasting diplomatic resolution.
The deal, announced Wednesday, will see Hamas release 33 hostages in the first phase over six weeks, beginning January 19th. Further phases will be announced subsequently. In return, Israel is expected to release approximately 1,000 Palestinian prisoners. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu noted some unresolved clauses, he expressed hope for their resolution.
The agreement marks a potentially dramatic turning point in the 15-month conflict that began with Hamas’ October 2023 attack on Israel, during which 251 hostages were taken. While Hamas still holds approximately 94 hostages, Israel estimates that only 60 remain alive.
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