The Kremlin views the possibility of a near-term ceasefire agreement in Gaza with cautious optimism, according to Russian Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov.
“This development can only be met with cautious optimism, as the dire humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza continues to worsen. A ceasefire and truce are urgently needed for the residents who remain in Gaza, enduring unimaginable hardships,” Peskov told reporters.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Israel and Hamas might announce a ceasefire within 24 hours, with both sides finalizing the agreement's terms. On January 11, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed negotiators to head to Doha for further consultations regarding the release of hostages held in Gaza. A day later, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told CNN that the parties were “very close” to reaching a ceasefire deal, suggesting it could happen before the January 20 inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump.
In late November 2023, a week-long humanitarian truce in Gaza was brokered by Egypt and Qatar. During this period, Israel reported the release of 110 hostages. However, the ceasefire was broken on December 1, 2023, leading to renewed hostilities in the Palestinian enclave. Despite several rounds of consultations throughout 2024, involving Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S., the conflicting sides failed to agree on the terms of a long-term deal.
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Photo: official website of the President of the Russian Federation
Based on materials from TASS