Joint call for Israel to respond to Hamas wanting to release all Israeli hostages

South Africa has welcomed the willingness of Hamas to release all Israeli hostages and is urging the country to respond with equal commitment to restoring peace.

The International Relations and Cooperation department said that this development presents an opportunity to promote human dignity and a lasting ceasefire.

This follows Hamas’ partial acceptance of a proposed ceasefire plan proposed by the United States’ president, aimed at ending the war in Gaza.

Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump put forward a 20-point plan calling for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages by Hamas as well as the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

The proposal which is supported by international stakeholders. also includes the establishment of a post-war transitional authority, to govern the Palestinian territory.

On Friday, Hamas confirmed that it was prepared to release hostages but also wants to negotiate key details and be included in decisions about Gaza’s future.

Despite this, Gaza’s Civil Defence Agency reported that dozens of Israeli airstrikes and artillery attacks following Hamas’ response.

In its statement, South Africa reiterated that all parties must commit to the peace process.