Jakarta – Palestinian militant group Hamas and Israel have agreed on a ceasefire. Deputy Chair of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Ahmad Heryawan (Aher), hopes the ceasefire will mark the beginning of recognizing Palestinian independence.
“We urge and hope that this ceasefire becomes the start of the full recognition of sovereignty and independence for the Palestinian people de facto,” said Aher when contacted on Friday (17/1/2025).
Aher stated that the ceasefire would stop civilian casualties, end genocide, and allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza without obstacles. He also criticized Israel’s military actions for continuing genocide despite the agreement with Hamas, even though the ceasefire is set to take effect on Sunday (19/1).
“It seems like they (Israel) are still looking for opportunities, taking advantage before the ceasefire takes effect, continuing their atrocities, with escalation rising incredibly,” said Aher.
Aher emphasized that Israel’s atrocities would be noted by the international community. Various countries, he added, have been pressuring Israel to stop its genocide.
“Even in America, the public pressure on Israel to immediately stop the war and genocide is extraordinary,” he continued.
Deputy Chair of Commission I DPR, Dave Laksono, expressed joy upon hearing about the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel. He hopes the ceasefire will become permanent.
“This is a step towards peace, and we hope these steps will be permanent,” Dave stated in a video message.
Dave added that the ceasefire could provide the people of Gaza space to rebuild their lives, destroyed by Israel. This includes access to healthcare, education, and economic reconstruction.
“It can also improve the welfare of the people and ensure global peace,” he said.
Previously reported, the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas was reached through mediation by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States (US). The ceasefire is effective on Sunday (19/1).
Despite the agreement, Israel continues its atrocities in Gaza. Most recently, at least 82 people were killed.
The US has long supported a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine, which would create a state for Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip alongside Israel.
Netanyahu, in a previous statement, said Israel must maintain control over the entire territory west of the Jordan River, preventing the formation of a sovereign Palestinian state. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has previously ruled that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories and settlements is illegal.