The Albanese government is urging Israel and Hamas to “respect” the terms of a ceasefire-for-hostages deal, hours after mediating countries announced the breakthrough.
US President Joe Biden and Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said separately on Wednesday evening (local time) the warring parties had reached an initial agreement to exchange 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for an immediate halt in fighting.
The deal would come into force on Sunday if it got cabinet approval in Israel.
Israel and Hamas have struck a hostages-for-ceasefire deal in Gaza after 15 months of war. Picture: AFP
In a joint statement on Thursday, Anthony Albanese and Penny Wong welcomed the breakthrough.
“Australia welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire and hostage agreement in Gaza after 15 months of conflict and a devastating loss of civilian life,” they said.
“Australia has consistently been part of the international call for a ceasefire and release of hostages.
“We urge all parties to respect its terms and safeguard a lasting peace, including ensuring the immediate release of all hostages and unimpeded and sustained increases in humanitarian assistance to all parts of Gaza.”
More to come.