Joe Biden announces Israel-Hamas agreement: details to be released shortly

An important step towards an end to the conflict, thanks to US-led international diplomacy

US President Joe Biden announced a historic agreement between Israel and Hamas that includes a ceasefire and the release of hostages. The declaration follows months of intense diplomatic negotiations conducted by the US with the support of Egypt and Qatar. Biden stressed that this agreement represents a crucial moment for the region, ending months of violence in Gaza. ‘Today, after many months of intense diplomacy, Israel and Hamas reached a ceasefire and hostage agreement. This step will stop the fighting in Gaza, increase humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians and allow the reunification of hostages with their families after more than 15 months of captivity,’ he said.

The long road to agreement

Biden recalled that the contours of the plan had been outlined as early as 31 May 2024 and subsequently approved by the UN Security Council. The success of the initiative was made possible by pressure on Hamas, changing regional dynamics, including a ceasefire in Lebanon and a weakening of Iran, and American diplomacy, described by the president as ‘tenacious and dedicated’. ‘This achievement is the fruit of a sustained effort that has never stopped, demonstrating the value of international cooperation and US determination to promote peace,’ he said.

A thought for the victims of the conflict

In his remarks, Biden turned his thoughts to the victims of the conflict that began with the Hamas attack on 7 October and the many innocent civilians who died during the war. ‘As we welcome this news, we remember all the families who have lost loved ones in these difficult months. The road to peace requires that we also address the pain and suffering that this conflict has brought,’ he said.

American families waiting to re-embrace loved ones

The president expressed particular sympathy for the American families involved: three hostages still alive are in Gaza, while four await the return of the remains of their loved ones. ‘With this agreement, we are determined to bring home all those affected by this terrible ordeal. The work is not finished, but this is a fundamental step forward,’ he stressed.

A message of hope for the future

Biden concluded his speech with an appeal to look forward, hoping that the ceasefire would be the start of a peace and security building process for the region. ‘I will talk about this in more detail soon. For now, I am excited that those who have been held hostage can finally be reunited with their families,’ he said with emotion.

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