GCC welcomes Gaza agreement

The Gulf Co-operation Council has welcomed US President Donald Trump’s announcement of an agreement on the first phase of a ceasefire deal in Gaza. In a statement, GCC Secretary General Jasem Al Budaiwi praised Mr Trump’s efforts, as well as the “constructive support” provided by Qatar, Egypt and Turkey, in reaching the agreement “through a diligent diplomatic path and continuous co-ordination”. Mr Al Budaiwi said that this step “represents a new hope for alleviating the humanitarian suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza and paving the way to address the tragic conditions experienced by civilians, particularly concerning the provision of medical and food aid and ensuring the safe and sustainable flow of humanitarian support”.