European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana has welcomed the six-month ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas).
"The truce that came into effect this morning is a very welcome development," Solana told reporters here Thursday. "I hope it will provide momentum for the peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians."
Solana congratulated Egypt "on its successful role in mediating the agreement on the truce which I urge the parties to respect in full."
"The main objective now is that the truce holds. I reiterate our readiness to resume our monitoring mission at the Rafah border crossing point," he added.
Hamas' armed wing announced its commitment to the six-month ceasefire deal with Israel in the Gaza Strip through a leaflet.
The Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades released the leaflet at 6:00 a.m. local time (0300 GMT) in Gaza, the exact moment the truce took effect.
But it reserved its right to strike back if Israel broke the truce. "We are ready to retaliate in case Israel violates the truce."
An hour before the truce came into force, a Hamas armed militant was killed and two injured in Israeli tank shelling on southeastern Gaza City, Palestinian medics said.
Source:Xinhua
|
Comment
Tell A Friend
Print Format
Save Article