Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna stated that the release of hostages who had been held by Hamas for 738 days, along with the implementation of the first phase of the Gaza peace plan, marks a significant breakthrough on the path to lasting peace in the Middle East.
“The release of the surviving hostages, who had been imprisoned by Hamas for 738 days, and the implementation of the initial phase of the peace plan is a significant step towards lasting peace in the Middle East,” said Tsahkna. “I wholeheartedly welcome this.”
“I deeply appreciate the tireless mediation efforts of the United States, Qatar, Egypt and Turkey, which helped reunite the hostages with their families and offer renewed hope for peace,” he added.
The foreign minister emphasised that it is now crucial to ensure unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza in order to alleviate the suffering of civilians and support the stabilisation of the region.
“The ceasefire must guarantee that vital aid reaches those in need and lays the groundwork for long-term recovery,” Tsahkna added.
The release of the hostages took place as part of the first phase of the Gaza peace plan, which includes a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the expansion of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
“For the first time in a long while, there is a genuine opportunity to end the violence and improve the situation for civilians,” the Tsahkna noted, adding that Estonia supports all efforts aimed at maintaining the ceasefire and progressing towards lasting peace.
Tsahkna stated that lasting peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians can only be achieved through a two-state solution.
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