Thailand welcomes the ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas, according to the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement issued today.

It said that the temporary ceasefire, between the Israelis and Hamas, represents important progress in the efforts over the past several weeks by all parties concerned.

It said that it welcomes the ceasefire for humanitarian reasons, to allow aid to get to those who need it in Gaza, and expressed hope that all the hostages, including Thai nationals, will be released as quickly as possible.

In the statement, the Thai Foreign Ministry expressed its appreciation and thanks to the governments of Qatar, Israel the United States and Egypt, the International Committee of the Red Cross and all the other parties concerned for their efforts to bring about the release of the hostages.

It also expressed good wishes to the hostages and their families. Twenty-three  Thais are currently being held hostage in Gaza.