BRUSSELS - High-ranking European Union (EU) officials on Wednesday welcomed a ceasefire agreement in Gaza and called on both parties to fully implement the deal.

"This brings hope to the entire region, where people have endured immense suffering for far too long," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on her X account.

"Both parties must fully implement this agreement, as a stepping stone toward lasting stability in the region and a diplomatic resolution of the conflict, "she added.

"This is a major, positive breakthrough towards ending the violence," noted Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, also on X.

Qatar announced Wednesday evening that Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire-for-hostages deal in Gaza. According to the agreement, Hamas will release 33 hostages in the first phase, spanning six weeks, in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners. Implementation of the agreement will begin on Sunday, Jan 19. The details of the second and third phases will be announced after the completion of the first phase of the agreement.