US President Joe Biden has welcomed the agreement reached between Israel and Hamas for a four-day ceasefire. In a statement to the media, Biden says he is "extremely pleased" to reach this agreement through which 50 hostages will be released.
"Jill and I have held all the hostages and their loved ones close to our hearts these weeks and I am extremely pleased that some of these brave souls, who have endured weeks of captivity and unspeakable ordeal, will to be reunited with their families once this agreement is fully implemented."
Biden thanked Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar and President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt for their "leadership and partnership in reaching this agreement."
He also said he "appreciates the commitment that Prime Minister Netanyahu and his government have made to support an extended pause to ensure that this agreement can be fully concluded and to ensure that additional humanitarian assistance is provided to alleviate the suffering of innocent families Palestinians in Gaza."
"As President, I have no higher priority than ensuring the safety of Americans held hostage around the world," he added. "Today's agreement is a testament to the tireless diplomacy and determination of many in our administration who are dedicated to the mission of bringing Americans home."
The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, also had a reaction, who said that "the United States welcomes the agreement to release 50 hostages, including American citizens, held by Hamas since the October 7 attack on Israel."
"I can't imagine the ordeal each of them must have endured over the last few weeks," he said. "While this agreement marks significant progress, we will not rest as long as Hamas continues to hold hostages in Gaza. My top priority is the safety and security of Americans abroad, and we will continue our efforts to secure the release of any pledge and quick reunification with their families".