Hamas, Iran Welcome Gaza Ceasefire, Mock Israel’s ‘Biggest Defeat’, West Hails Hostage Release

World leaders welcomed the release of three Israeli hostages from Hamas captivity on 19 January, describing it as overdue good news. Leaders including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the development while urging the implementation of the three-phase Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal. However, global reactions largely overlooked the concurrent release of 90 Palestinian prisoners. Hamas spokesperson Abu Obeida called the hostage release a milestone and reiterated the group’s commitment to the ceasefire, contingent upon Israeli compliance. He warned against US efforts to normalise ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Key international figures, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen, emphasised humanitarian aid for Gaza and full adherence to the truce. Qatar and Iran underlined the ceasefire’s fragility, with Iran terming it a defeat for Israel. Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir criticised the deal, advocating military means for hostage recovery. The World Health Organisation highlighted the challenges of restoring Gaza’s health infrastructure after 15 months of war. As hostages await release in later phases, diplomatic efforts remain critical. n18oc_world n18oc_crux