Kurdistan Region Presidency welcomes Gaza ceasefire

ERBIL — The Kurdistan Region Presidency has expressed support for the recently announced ceasefire in Gaza, describing it as a potential step toward long-term peace and stability in the region.

In a statement, the Presidency said, “We welcome the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. We hope it will be a step toward calm and lasting peace in the region. Ending conflict and violence is the only way to ensure a better future for everyone.”

The statement also urged all parties involved to prioritize dialogue and cooperation. “We call on all parties to commit to dialogue and work for stability and development,” it added.

Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire in Gaza after 15 months of devastating conflict.

The ceasefire is set to take effect on Sunday. Despite the announcement, Israeli airstrikes continued, with a residential block in northern Gaza shelled, resulting in at least 12 deaths and several injuries.

The ceasefire agreement includes the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners detained by Israel. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that his Cabinet will not meet to approve the ceasefire until Hamas retracts additional demands, which he claims are attempts to gain further concessions.