Israel Hamas conflict: Hillary Clinton welcomes Gaza ceasefire

"The United States welcomes today the agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza. For it to hold, the rocket attacks must end, and broader calm return,'' said Mrs Clinton, speaking in Cairo.

Announcing the ceasefire in Cairo, Egyptian Foreign Minister Mohamed Kamel Amr said it would come into force at 9pm local time - which would give 1.7 million Palestinians respite from days of ferocious air strikes and halt rocket attacks from Gaza that for the first time reached Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

"This is a critical moment for the region. Egypt's new government is assuming the responsibility and leadership that has long made this country a cornerstone in regional stability and peace," she said.

Source: Reuters