PA MediaFirst Minister of Scotland John Swinney has spoken of his hope that a “long overdue” ceasefire between Israel and Hamas can be a step towards peace and security in the region.
British hostage Emily Damari was released by Hamas on Sunday along with two other hostages, Romi Gonen, 24, and Doron Steinbrecher, 31, and the trio are now in Israel.
Swinney said: “It is my sincere hope that this ceasefire marks the start of a long-term political solution in the Middle East.
“I welcome the return of the hostages to their families who are being released as part of the ceasefire deal.
“The agreement is also long overdue for the people of Gaza who have endured unimaginable suffering over the past 15 months.
“There is still significant work required to ensure peace and security across the region.
“The focus must now be on removing all obstacles to delivery of humanitarian aid to those across Gaza who so badly need it.”
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