Top Swiss diplomat meets with Israeli president, urges full implementation of Gaza ceasefire agreement

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

GENEVA (AA) – Switzerland's foreign minister met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos on Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of fully implementing the Gaza ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

"I expressed my deep relief over the ceasefire in Gaza and the first releases of hostages—a crucial first step towards hope," Ignazio Cassis stated on X following his meeting.

"I also highlighted the necessity to implement all phases of the agreement to prepare for the 'day after,'" he said, adding, "The restoration of a political perspective based on the two-state solution is indispensable."

The Gaza ceasefire agreement took effect on Jan. 19, halting Israel’s genocidal war that has killed at least 47,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured more than 110,700 since Oct. 7, 2023.

The three-phase ceasefire agreement includes a prisoner exchange and sustained calm, aiming for a permanent truce and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

Separately, Cassis met with caretaker Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani to discuss the situation and challenges facing his country.

Nothing that al-Shaibani shared the Syrian vision and the needs of its people with him during the meeting, Cassis said: "I reiterated Switzerland’s long-standing support for the Syrian population, especially for a peaceful, inclusive, and democratic transition."