The White House has issued a statement on the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Gaza-based militants after nearly five days of fighting. The statement, released by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, said that the United States welcomes the ceasefire brokered by the Egyptian Government and that U.S. officials worked closely with regional partners to achieve this resolution to the hostilities. The statement also expressed gratitude for the critical diplomatic efforts of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi of Egypt and Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar.
The statement came after President Biden spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel and President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority earlier today. According to the White House, President Biden reiterated his firm support for Israel’s right to defend itself against indiscriminate rocket attacks and commended the Prime Minister for his decision to bring the current hostilities to a close within less than 11 days. President Biden also emphasized the need to work toward a lasting peace and a two-state solution that ensures the dignity and security of both Israelis and Palestinians.
The ceasefire announcement follows a week of intense violence that claimed the lives of more than 200 people, mostly Palestinians, and injured thousands more. The conflict also caused widespread damage to infrastructure and humanitarian facilities in Gaza, as well as disruptions to daily life in Israel. The United Nations, the European Union, and other international actors have called for an immediate end to the hostilities and urged both sides to respect international humanitarian law and protect civilians.
The White House said that the United States remains committed to working with the United Nations and other partners to provide rapid humanitarian assistance and support for recovery and reconstruction in Gaza. The statement also said that the United States will continue to engage with Israelis, Palestinians, and other regional stakeholders to advance dialogue and cooperation on a range of issues, including advancing freedom, security, prosperity, and human rights for all.
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Statement from Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Announc ement of a Ceasefire Between Israel and Gaza-based Militants | The White House – WhiteHouse.gov
