Since the beginning of the escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, different world leaders and organizations have been calling for a ceasefire. Finally, two parties have reached an agreement to stop hostilities for a few days.
"As a member of the international community that stands for peace, justice and the rule of international law in all parts of the world, South Africa welcomes the agreement reached," Ramaphosa was quoted as saying by his office.
The president expressed hope that the agreement between the two sides would boost efforts to achieve a full ceasefire.
Earlier in the day, Israel and Hamas confirmed that they had agreed to a four-day ceasefire in Gaza, with the cessation of all hostilities and the release of 50 Israeli hostages in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners.
On October 7, Hamas launched a surprise large-scale rocket attack against Israel from the Gaza Strip and breached the border, killing around 1,200 people and abducting over 200 others in neighboring Israeli communities. Israel launched retaliatory strikes and ordered a complete blockade of the Gaza Strip, cutting off supplies of water, food, and fuel.
On October 27, Israel launched a large-scale ground incursion inside the Gaza Strip with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 14,100 people in the exclave, according to the Gaza authorities.