UAE welcomes Gaza agreement

The UAE has welcomed the agreement aimed at ending the Gaza war and the launch of the first phase of US President Donald Trump's 20-point proposal, urging all parties to abide by its terms.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the agreement marks an important step towards achieving a comprehensive and just peace that guarantees the rights of the Palestinians.

The UAE also commended the efforts of Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey in mediating the agreement and expressed hope that it will end the suffering in the Gaza Strip.

The ministry urged both sides to "commit to the terms of the agreement, exercise self-restraint, and work diligently to resume a comprehensive political process leading to a two-state solution".

It reiterated the UAE's unwavering support for all regional and international efforts aimed at ending the war, while emphasizing the need for urgent and unhindered humanitarian aid to reach the Palestinians in the Strip.

Egypt's state-affiliated Qahera TV reported the ceasefire had officially come into effect after noon in the region (0900 GMT), when the two sides signed it in the Egyptian beach resort of Sharm el-Sheikh. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said it would take effect only once ratified by the Israeli cabinet, which was scheduled to meet at 5:00 pm. Residents in Gaza reported a series of air strikes on Gaza City around the time it was due to be signed.

Under the deal, fighting will cease, Israel will partially withdraw from Gaza and Hamas will free hostages it captured in the attack that precipitated the war, in exchange for prisoners held by Israel.