Spanish Government welcomes first release of hostages and entry into force of ceasefire in Gaza

The Government of Spain welcomes the entry into force of the ceasefire in Gaza and the release of the first three hostages, who have been unjustly held hostage for more than 15 months, and conveys its best wishes for their recovery.

It is important that the ceasefire be consolidated and allow the release of the remaining hostages and the massive influx of humanitarian aid of which Spain will be a part, for which the work of UNRWA is essential and irreplaceable.

It is essential that negotiations between the parties resume immediately in order to advance to the successive phases of the agreement.

Spain will support stabilisation efforts in Gaza, which will only be viable if the Palestinian Authority assumes its governance responsibilities in all Palestinian territories, restores security and basic services and prepares for the reconstruction of Gaza.

The Government of Spain will continue to work with regional partners and allies to promote the implementation of the two-state solution, which is the best guarantee of peace and stability for the region.

-NON OFFICIAL TRANSLATION-