South Africa welcomes temporary ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas

South Africa has welcomed the temporary ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas, saying this is a crucial first step toward ending the severe humanitarian crisis faced by the 2.3-million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The ceasefire, which will come into effect on Sunday, will include the release of 33 hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. Minister of International Relations and Cooperation’s spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri, says all obstacles to the delivery of humanitarian aid in Gaza must be lifted: