Sunak praises Qatar and Egypt for ‘intensive diplomacy’ over temporary Gaza truce

Rishi Sunak has praised both Qatar and Egypt for their “intensive diplomacy” in helping to secure the pause in the fighting in Gaza.

The temporary truce between Israel and Hamas came into effect early on Friday, ahead of the exchange of dozens of hostages held by terrorists in Gaza for Palestinians imprisoned in Israel.

Sunak tweeted: “This humanitarian pause is critical to end the terrible ordeal of hostages held by Hamas and get life-saving aid into Gaza.

“I want to thank Qatar, Egypt and others for the intensive diplomacy that has got us here. We will not stop until all hostages are safely returned.”

Meanwhile foreign secretary, David Cameron, is continuing his trip to the region by meeting with Palestinian leaders where he will confirm the UK has committed a further £30m in aid for people in Gaza.

While in the West Bank Cameron will meet Palestinian leaders and agencies delivering aid in Gaza. He will engage in talks on how UK efforts can help ease the suffering of Gaza’s citizens.

More humanitarian aid is set to enter Gaza during the humanitarian pause in fighting.