• Israel and Hamas have made a historic ceasefire deal after 15 months of intense conflict.
• World leaders express relief and hope, advocating for immediate humanitarian aid to Gaza.
• Previous calls for a two-state solution are re-emphasized as crucial for lasting peace.
• The agreement includes provisions for the exchange of hostages and prisoners.

In a significant development, Israel and Hamas have announced a ceasefire deal after nearly 15 months of war, a decision that has been met with widespread acclaim from the international community. The agreement, confirmed by Qatar's Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, will facilitate the release of Israeli captives in return for Palestinian prisoners and establish humanitarian aid corridors to Gaza. This ceasefire is set to commence on January 19, 2025, according to reports from ABC News.

U.S. President Joe Biden expressed his optimism, stating, "Fighting in Gaza will stop, and soon the hostages will return home to their families." He also highlighted the need for a credible path toward a Palestinian state and regional normalization towards Israel and its Arab neighbors. His sentiments were echoed by other global leaders who acknowledged the urgent humanitarian need that resulted from the conflict.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the agreement as a "stepping stone toward lasting stability in the region," emphasizing that hostages would soon be reunited with their families and that humanitarian supplies could reach those in need. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stressed the necessity for the agreement to be executed "to the letter," ensuring all hostages are released and that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is adequately addressed. “This opens the door to a permanent end to the war,” Scholz added, addressing the urgent need for humanitarian assistance, as indicated by Al Jazeera.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer characterized the ceasefire as the long-awaited news both Israeli and Palestinian populations needed, underscoring the essential next steps towards securing a two-state solution that provides security and stability for both nations. On a regional level, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi emphasized his country’s enduring support for a just peace and called for expedited humanitarian aid to Gaza, reflecting on Egypt’s active role in mediating the ceasefire negotiations.

Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan also praised the agreement for its significance in promoting regional stability, reiterating Turkey’s commitment to a two-state solution while recognizing the prevailing humanitarian crisis. The Guardian noted that many leaders underscored the importance of both parties adhering to the ceasefire commitments to ensure a sustainable peace and mitigate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where health authorities estimate over 46,000 fatalities have occurred since the onset of conflict.

As international support solidifies around this ceasefire, the consensus remains that humanitarian aid to Gaza and the urgent return of hostages are paramount. Former President Barack Obama remarked that while no agreement can alleviate all pain, the ceasefire represents a vital opportunity to provide relief to suffering civilians. He acknowledged the ongoing efforts of diplomats in securing this step, illustrating the global community's commitment to fostering peace in a deeply affected region.

This landmark ceasefire opens the door to the possibility of beginning anew for civilians on both sides, encapsulating hope as humanity calls for a prolonged cessation of violence. For further information and updates, refer to the coverage by Reuters.