The government has welcomed the recent announcement of the ‘agreement for the release of hostages and ceasefire in Gaza,’ expressing hope for lasting peace and stability in the region.

In a press release issued on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East since the escalation on October 7, 2023. The ministry highlighted Nepal’s consistent call for the release of all hostages, including Nepali national Bipin Joshi.

The government also commended mediation efforts that led to the agreement, emphasising the importance of uninterrupted humanitarian assistance to the people in Gaza.

Hamas and Israel reached a deal for a ceasefire in Gaza on Wednesday. Mediators said the deal would take effect on Sunday and include a release of hostages held there during 15 months of bloodshed that devastated the Palestinian enclave and inflamed the Middle East, Reuters reported.

The complex phased accord outlines a six-week initial ceasefire with the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, where tens of thousands have been killed. Hostages taken by militant group Hamas, which controls Gaza, would be freed in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.