Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Sussan Ley have welcomed the announcement that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a US-led Gaza peace plan, which will allow for the return of hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops to an agreed line.
Albanese described the agreement as a “much-needed step towards peace” after more than two years of conflict, hostages held, and devastating civilian losses.
In a statement with Foreign Minister Penny Wong, he urged all parties to respect the plan’s terms and acknowledged the role of President Trump, as well as Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye, in helping deliver the deal.
“We thank President Trump for his diplomatic efforts and acknowledge the important role of Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye in delivering this agreement,” Albanese said.
“There is a very long road to recovery in Gaza, securing long-term peace and building the Palestinian state.”
Ley said the deal “should inspire hope in Australia and across the world” for enduring peace. She highlighted that the agreement showed “careful diplomacy delivers results” and called it “the start of the end of this war.”
Both leaders stressed Australia’s continued support for efforts to achieve a just and lasting two-state solution in the region.
The announcement coincided with the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, which killed over 1,200 people and saw hundreds of Israelis taken hostage.
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