Today’s news / PM Frederiksen hopes for prolonged pause in war

PM Frederiksen hopes for prolonged pause in war

Wednesday’s news of an agreement for a  prolonged cessation of hostilities” in Gaza was “important news” according to Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in a written comment to Ritzau – “So we can protect the children. And the sick and wounded can get the treatment they desperately need. The situation in Gaza is terrible and completely heartbreaking, and it is crucial that emergency aid arrives,” says Mette Frederiksen. She goes on to say that it is “a complicated conflict”.
     “Israel has the right to defend itself against the vile attack on civilians on October 7. There are no easy solutions. Denmark continues to support a two-state solution.” On Wednesday night both Israel and Hamas confirmed that an agreement had been reached between the parties. When implemented, the pause will result in at least four days without hostilities. In addition, at least 50 hostages are to be, while at least 150 Palestinians imprisoned in Israel will also be released. It will be the first ceasefire in the war, which has lasted just under seven weeks. The agreement was negotiated with the help of Qatar.
     Denmark does not know whether the suspected Danish-Israeli hostage in Gaza is among the hostages to be released. “It is a very important step forward that an agreement has been reached on the release of some of Hamas hostages so that they can be reunited with their families. However, this does not change the fact that innocent victims are still being held captive. And if the suspected Danish-Israeli hostage is not among the freedmen, he must of course also return to his family. All hostages must be released immediately,” says Mette Frederiksen. /ritzau/