16 January 2025, San Marino – All members of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) welcome the announcement of the ceasefire agreement and on the forthcoming release of hostages in Gaza. The Assemblyalso commends the diplomatic efforts carried out by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, whose steadfast diplomatic commitment and mediation have been instrumental in achieving this milestone result.
The ceasefire agreement, which will unfold in three critical phases, marks a significant opportunity to easy the tremendous suffering caused by the conflict, and restore peace and stability in the broader region. It is imperative that all parties uphold their commitments.
As reported by the United Nations, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with countless civilians enduring unimaginable hardship and the condition of hostages still at the heart of international concern. Echoing the call of the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, PAM stresses the urgency of ensuring free and safe access to lifesaving humanitarian aid. The cessation of hostilities creates theopportunity to address these pressing issues, removing security and political barriers that hinder relief efforts and enabling a significant increase in the delivery of essential humanitarian and relief aid to those in need.
PAM supports the full implementation of the agreement, and,as agreed with the UN Secretary General, is ready to actively contribute to the long-term plan of reconstruction and future governance of Gaza. Central to these efforts is the commitment to achieving the Two-State Solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security, in line with international law, relevant UN resolutions, and previous agreements.
PAM wishes to pay tribute to all innocent civilians, in Israel and Palestine, who have lost their lives since 7 October 2023, including UN personnel and humanitarian workers. //