Could the Gaza Deal Mark a New Era of Peace in the Middle East?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- South Korea welcomes the peace agreement.
- Hope for a turning point in Middle East peace.
- Hamas to release hostages.
- Israel's troop withdrawal is part of the plan.
- Support from Trump and neighboring nations.
Seoul, Oct 9 (NationPress) The government of South Korea expressed its optimism on Thursday regarding the initial phase of a peace agreement reached between Israel and Hamas, hoping it could act as a significant turning point for achieving peace in the Middle East.
The foreign ministry issued this statement following the signing of the peace plan, which stipulates that Hamas will free hostages while Israel will partially pull back its military presence in Gaza and release Palestinian prisoners, according to reports from Yonhap News Agency.
"We sincerely appreciate the initiative taken by US President Donald Trump in facilitating this agreement, along with the mediation efforts from neighboring nations like Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey," the ministry noted.
The ministry expressed hope for the prompt release of all hostages and improvements in humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
"(The government) believes this latest agreement could become a pivotal moment for restoring peace and stability in the Middle East," the ministry stated.
This statement from the South Korean government follows Trump’s announcement on his social media platform, Truth Social, that an agreement had been reached between Israel and Hamas on the first phase of a plan to cease hostilities in Gaza, facilitating the release of hostages and prisoners.
In his Truth Social post, Trump declared it a remarkable day for the Arab and Muslim World, Israel, neighboring countries, and the United States, thanking the mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey.
"I am proud to announce that both Israel and Hamas have agreed on the first phase of our peace plan. This means all hostages will be released soon, and Israel will withdraw its troops to a mutually agreed line as initial steps towards a strong, durable, and lasting peace. All parties will be treated fairly! Today marks a significant day for the Arab and Muslim World, Israel, neighboring countries, and the United States of America, and we extend our gratitude to the mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for making this historic event possible," Trump stated in his post.