Blanar Welcomes Gaza Ceasefire Deal, But Expresses Concern Over Hamas's Stance

Bratislava, 14 October (TASR) – Foreign and European Affairs Minister Juraj Blanar on Monday welcomed the signing of a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, the return of 20 Israeli hostages alive, and the handover of the bodies of four deceased hostages, but at the same time he voiced concern over statements by Hamas indicating that the group will not lay down its arms, TASR learnt from the Foreign Affairs Ministry press department on Tuesday. The agreement, signed on Monday in the Egyptian city of Sharm El-Sheikh by representatives of the United States, Egypt, Qatar and Turkey, marks "a significant step towards fulfilling the comprehensive peace plan of U.S. President Donald Trump," said Blanar. "The Slovak Republic welcomes the release and return of 20 Israeli hostages held by Hamas, as well as the handover of the remains of other victims. However, statements by Hamas that it will not disarm are deeply concerning. Slovakia supports the efforts of Egypt and Qatar to achieve full disarmament," added the Foreign Minister in his statement. He reiterated Slovakia's longstanding support for Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza, describing it as "an important opportunity to de-escalate tensions in the region, bring the conflict to an end through peace, swiftly increase humanitarian aid, and alleviate the disastrous humanitarian situation in Gaza and the suffering of the civilian population". Minister Blanar also reaffirmed Slovakia's support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He stressed that Slovak diplomacy will "continue to intensify humanitarian efforts and provide ongoing political support to maintain peace". mf/df