Synopsis
President Joe Biden announced the cessation of violence in Gaza following the release of three hostages by Hamas, marking a significant step in the ceasefire agreement between Israel and the militant group. The hostages, who had been held for 470 days, have been reunited with their families as aid begins to flow into the region.Key Takeaways
- Biden confirms the ceasefire in Gaza.
- Three Israeli hostages released after 470 days.
- Displaced Gazans returning home.
- Significant role of both Biden and Trump administrations in securing the deal.
- Future administration's responsibility to implement the agreement.
Washington, Jan 20 (NationPress) US President Joe Biden stated that the "guns in Gaza have gone silent" following Hamas' release of three hostages -- marking the first group freed under a ceasefire agreement between Israel and the militant organization that commenced on Sunday.
"The proposal I initiated last May concerning the Middle East has ultimately materialized. The ceasefire is now active in Gaza, and today we witness the release of hostages -- three Israeli women who endured captivity in the dark tunnels for 470 days," Biden remarked during a speech from Charleston, South Carolina.
"After enduring immense suffering, devastation, and loss of life, the guns in Gaza have ceased fire today," he added.
Displaced residents of Gaza have begun returning to their homes, while aid convoys carrying essential supplies have entered Gaza.
The three Israeli hostages freed by Hamas on Sunday have already returned to Israel, as confirmed by a statement from the Israeli military.
Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, and Emily Damari are now being reunited with their mothers, who traveled to Re'im in southern Israel to meet them.
"The released hostages are currently en route to an initial reception center in southern Israel, where they will receive a preliminary medical evaluation," the military stated.
Following this, they will be taken to Sheba Medical Center in Tel Aviv.
Previously, the Red Cross facilitated the transfer of hostages to the Israeli military in Gaza, as noted by the military.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has acknowledged both the outgoing Biden administration and President-elect Donald Trump's transition team for their roles in securing the agreement. Biden's team has been engaged in the negotiations for several months, keeping the incoming Trump administration informed about the final details.
President Biden expressed satisfaction on Sunday that both his administration and President-elect Trump's transition team operated as "one voice in the final days" to achieve the Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement.
"This was both necessary and effective, and unprecedented, but achieving success will require ongoing effort and continued support for our allies in the region, along with faith in diplomacy backed by deterrence," Biden stated during his remarks from Charleston, South Carolina.
"Now it is up to the next administration to assist in executing this agreement," he added.
When questioned about potential regrouping by Hamas, Biden replied, "No."
Sunday marks the concluding full day of the Biden administration, as Trump is set to be inaugurated on Monday.
