The deal on a ceasefire in Gaza and release of hostages is the breakthrough we all hoped for  

 

The deal on a ceasefire in Gaza and release of hostages is the breakthrough we all hoped for  

Strasbourg  
 
 

Opening the Plenary Session in Strasbourg, the President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola said that the agreement on a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages must hold and that its aims are met.

       

Yesterday, the world watched expectantly as a ceasefire deal in Gaza held and the first three of the hostages made it home.

It is the breakthrough we have all hoped for, and that so many have desperately needed. It is what this Parliament has called for. 

Now, more than ever, we must ensure that work towards a better tomorrow continues. That we can use this moment as a catalyst that changes despair to hope. That becomes the stepping stone to lasting stability, re-building and a surge in aid. That allows for a real prospect of peace in the region.

We will have a full debate on this later this evening but our priority must be on ensuring that the agreement holds and its aims are met - that will allow the conflict to stop, get aid in and get the remaining hostages out. 

The day after must bring new hope and Europe is ready to play its part.