EU leaders welcomed the release of hostages held by the Palestinian Hamas movement in the Gaza Strip. In their statement, EU politicians praised US President Donald Trump's efforts, promising to invest in Gaza reconstruction.
Last week, Israel and Hamas agreed to Trump's peace plan, which calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all hostages. Khalil al-Hayya, chief negotiator for Hamas, said Israel has agreed to release 250 Palestinians serving long prison sentences and 1,700 prisoners from the Gaza Strip captured after the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023.
Also as part of the agreement, the Israel Defense Forces will withdraw to the so-called “Yellow Line” in the Gaza Strip. On the morning of October 13, the 20 hostages remaining with Hamas were released.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen call The final release of the hostages was “a moment of relief for the whole world”. She emphasized that Europe fully supports the peace plan developed with the mediation of the United States, Qatar, Egypt and Türkiye.
“It means we can turn the page. We can start a new chapter,” she wrote in X.
Von der Leyen said the plan could be a “historic milestone”. She said the EU would provide support for the governance and reform of the Palestinian Authority. Brussels will also provide funding for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.
French President Emmanuel Macron statedthat Paris would participate in every phase of Trump's plan along with “mobilized Arab partners.” He added that he shares the joy of the hostages' families and all Israelis.
“My team and I just met their parents,” Macron emphasized.
Hamas releases the last hostages from Gaza
Head of EU diplomacy Kaja Kallas on social network X welcome the release of seven Israeli Hamas hostages, highlights Trump's role in this “important milestone on the path to peace.”
“Today marks a rare moment of hope in the Middle East. The release of the hostages is a major diplomatic success and an important milestone on the path to peace. This breakthrough is possible thanks to President Trump,” Callas wrote.
At the same time, she warned that ensuring peace in the Gaza Strip would be extremely difficult. Kallas said that for the peace plan to succeed, strong international support is needed.
She said the EU is “ready to do its part”. On Wednesday, October 15, the EU will continue its civilian mission to monitor border crossings between the Gaza Strip and Egypt. According to Kallas, this mission could play an important role in supporting the ceasefire.
