Kenya on Saturday, June 1, announced that it associated itself with a joint statement from Qatar, Egypt and the United States on how to end the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei stated that the three countries had outlined the right path in ending the conflict that has led to the deaths and displacement of many.
The three countries made the joint statement a day after US President Joe Biden tabled principles that would lead to a ceasefire.
“We associate ourselves fully with this important initiative that seeks to halt the Israel-Hamas conflict that has led to wanton killings and destruction in Gaza and elsewhere in Palestine and triggered an unprecedented humanitarian crisis,” PS Sing’Oei stated.
“We urge the parties to make whatever compromise necessary to secure a permanent ceasefire.”
Qatar, Egypt, and the US, who have been acting as mediators to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages and detainees, called on both Hamas and Israel to finalise the agreement embodying the principles outlined by President Biden.
“These principles brought the demands of all parties together in a deal that serves multiple interests and will bring immediate relief both to the long-suffering people of Gaza as well as the long-suffering hostages and their families," read the statement in part.
Now, Kenya and the 3 mediating countries hope the deal offers a roadmap for a permanent ceasefire and ending the crisis.
Biden had presented a three-phase proposal that aimed to guarantee durable peace in the Middle East.
In phase one, the three countries have called for a total ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza.
Additionally, Hamas is mandated to release hostages and remains of hostages. Palestinian civilians will be able to return to their homes in Gaza after the ceasefire and receive humanitarian aid.
Phase two includes a permanent end to hostilities, exchange for the release of remaining living hostages and withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
The last phase will be a major reconstruction plan for Gaza and the final remains of hostages returned to their families.
