Joe Biden welcomed the fragile Gaza ceasefire, marking the end of his presidency with a cautious note of optimism. “After so much pain, death, and loss, the guns in Gaza are finally silent,” he said during a visit to South Carolina on his last full day in office.
The agreement, jointly brokered by Biden’s administration and Donald Trump’s transition team, saw Hamas releasing three female hostages to Israeli forces via the International Committee of the Red Cross. Biden confirmed the women were now free and in good health.
Trump to take the baton
Biden emphasized that ensuring the ceasefire’s success now falls on Trump and his team. He praised the unprecedented collaboration between their teams, saying, “Success will require persistence and belief in diplomacy backed by deterrence.“
Trump’s incoming national security adviser, Mike Waltz, warned Hamas against breaking the deal. “If Hamas reneges, we will back Israel’s response fully,” he told CBS. He also hinted at the Trump team’s aim to broker further normalization deals between Israel and Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia.
Global reactions pour in
World leaders expressed relief over the ceasefire. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer celebrated the release of British-Israeli citizen Emily Damari. “Emily is finally coming home. We stand ready to support the deal’s next phases, including more hostage releases and increased humanitarian aid,” he said.
Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz called it a “day of joy” but stressed the need for a long-term solution. “We must seize this moment to work toward a Palestinian state peacefully coexisting with Israel,” Scholz posted on X.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced plans to visit the region. “This agreement is a historic opportunity for peace,” he said, pledging Italy’s commitment to alleviating civilian suffering.
Ceasefire challenges ahead
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar warned of continued instability if Hamas remains in power. “A permanent ceasefire requires dismantling Hamas as a military force and ruling entity,” he said.
Meanwhile, humanitarian aid is expected to surge into Gaza, with hundreds of trucks set to deliver essential supplies. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock urged all parties to honor the deal, emphasizing that Gaza’s civilians still face dire conditions.
Pope Francis calls for peace
Pope Francis expressed hope for lasting peace, thanking mediators for their efforts. “May this agreement be respected immediately and bring relief to those who have suffered so much,” he said.
As the world watches, the ceasefire represents a glimmer of hope after weeks of devastation. However, much hinges on the resolve of the international community to ensure its success.
