Borg began the statement by assuring that Malta welcomes the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel and “expresses its gratitude to Qatar, the US and Egypt for their role in brokering this agreement.”

“We are pleased that this agreement will lead to the release of hostages and we call on all parties to implement it fully.”

He went on to state that Malta is prepared to continue supporting a “just and comprehensive peace based on a Two State solution”.

“Let this be the first step towards peace in the region.”

Yesterday evening marked a critical moment with Hamas telling multiple news outlets that its delegation has agreed to a proposed ceasefire and hostage release deal with Israel.

Meanwhile, Israel’s cabinet is due to meet today to the approve the deal that is expected to begin on Sunday. While it is yet to be formally approved, hopes for a halt of 15 months of fighting that has taken tens of thousands of Palestinian lives have risen high.

Hours after Israel and Hamas reached a ceasefire agreement, Israeli forces killed at least 82 people in Gaza, according to Al Jazeera’s medical sources.

Do you think that this ceasefire deal will be respected?