Keir Starmer responds to Gaza ceasefire deal first phase - 'profound relief'

Keir Starmer has welcomed Israel and Hamas' agreement to the first phase of a plan to end the bloodshed in Gaza as as a "moment of profound relief that will be felt around the world ".

It came as Donald Trump's announcement, which could see the release of hostages, was hailed a "massive, massive moment" today.

Posting on his Truth Social Platform, the US President said: "This means that ALL of the hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a strong, durable, and everlasting peace."

He thanked mediators and nations involved "who worked with us to make this historic and unprecedented event happen".

Mr Starmer, who is due to meet with India's PM Narendra Modi today, issued a statement in the early hours of Thursday morning. The PM said: "I welcome the news that a deal has been reached on the first stage of President Trump's peace plan for Gaza.

"This is a moment of profound relief that will be felt all around the world, but particularly for the hostages, their families, and for the civilian population of Gaza, who have all endured unimaginable suffering over the last two years."

The "tireless diplomatic efforts" of the US, as well as Egypt, Qatar and Turkey have been crucial in moving towards peace, the Prime Minister said.

He added: "This agreement must now be implemented in full, without delay, and accompanied by the immediate lifting of all restrictions on life-saving humanitarian aid to Gaza.

"We call on all parties to meet the commitments they have made, to end the war, and to build the foundations for a just and lasting end to the conflict and a sustainable path to a long-term peace.

"The UK will support these crucial immediate steps and the next stage of talks to ensure the full implementation of the peace plan."

Emily Damari, a British-Israeli who was held captive by Hamas, posted a video to her Instagram celebrating the news with friends, which included fellow former hostage Romi Gonen.

Eli Sharabi, a freed hostage whose wife and two daughters were killed during Hamas' attack on October 7, 2023, wrote on social media: "Great joy, can't wait to see everyone home."