World leaders react

New Delhi, Oct 4: Global leaders continue to pour out their reactions as BBC reported after hopes rose for a ceasefire in Gaza following a US‑brokered proposal and signals from Hamas, world leaders responded rapidly urging peace, the release of hostages, and humanitarian access.

Below is a roundup of prominent statements.

Key International Reactions

UN Secretary‑General António Guterres called for an immediate end to the tragedy in Gaza, stating: “I urge all parties to seize the opportunity to bring the tragic conflict in Gaza to an end.”

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan welcomed Hamas’s reaction to the ceasefire plan, calling it “a constructive and significant step toward achieving lasting peace.”

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that the release of hostages and peace for Gaza are now within reach, noting: “After almost two years, this is the best chance for peace.”

French President Emmanuel Macron echoed that sentiment: “The release of all hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza are within reach! Hamas’s commitment must be followed up without delay.”

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stressed that priority must now be to secure a ceasefire that leads to the immediate release of all hostages, adding that Italy stands ready to contribute.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said, “We encourage all parties to immediately work to turn commitments into reality.”