By Eniola Amadu
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has praised US President Donald Trump’s leadership in securing a landmark Gaza ceasefire deal, saying the agreement “would not have happened” without him.
Trump announced that Israel and Hamas had agreed to the first phase of his 20-point peace plan, a major step towards ending the conflict that began with the Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, which left about 1,200 people dead and hundreds taken hostage.
Speaking during a visit to Mumbai, Starmer said the UK had “played an important part behind the scenes” and witnessed “a real breakthrough” through Trump’s diplomacy.
Asked if the US President deserved the Nobel Peace Prize, he said the deal “would not have happened without President Trump’s leadership,” adding that the UK “stands ready to play our part in implementing this.”
The deal, backed by mediators including Egypt, Qatar and Türkiye, was described by Sir Keir as “a moment of profound relief felt around the world.”
Starmer urged all parties to “end the war and build the foundations for a just and lasting peace,” while calling for the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper travelled to Paris on for a follow-up meeting led by French President Emmanuel Macron, joined by representatives from Germany, Spain, Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Jordan.
Cooper said the meeting showed “strong support for President Trump’s initiative” and focused on ensuring “the ceasefire, release of hostages and restoration of humanitarian aid.”
She confirmed that Hamas would have “no role in Gaza’s future governance,” stressing the need for stability after two years of conflict.
The announcement of the deal sparked celebrations in Israel and Gaza, with people waving US flags in Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square.
However, some contentious issues remain unresolved, including Hamas’ disarmament — a key point in Trump’s plan.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey also welcomed the ceasefire, while Reform UK’s Nigel Farage congratulated Trump and his team.
