Freetown, Sierra Leone – October 13, 2025 – President Julius Maada Bio has welcomed the recent agreement between Israel and Hamas, describing it as a crucial step towards peace in the Middle East.
The deal, which includes a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the freeing of Palestinian prisoners, was reached after indirect negotiations mediated by the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye.
“We commend the tireless diplomacy of the mediators and all parties who helped bring this accord to fruition,” President Bio said in a statement issued on Monday.
The Sierra Leonean leader, who also chairs the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, highlighted the humanitarian importance of the agreement.
“These are vital humanitarian steps that honour the dignity of families on all sides and create space for the difficult work of ending the cycle of violence,” he noted.
President Bio further stressed the need for unimpeded humanitarian access. “The protection of civilians must remain paramount,” he said, urging full compliance with international humanitarian law.
Referencing broader peace efforts, he acknowledged former U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace plan and the Sharm el-Sheikh Peace Summit in Egypt, encouraging all stakeholders to continue good-faith negotiations under international law and relevant UN resolutions.
“That peace must realize the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination, ensure Israel’s security and the safety of all its people, and contribute to stability across the Middle East,” Bio stated.
He reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment as a current UN Security Council member.
“Sierra Leone stands ready to support diplomatic efforts that consolidate the ceasefire, complete the humane release and exchange of hostages and prisoners, expand humanitarian corridors, and translate this opening into a durable political settlement so that Israelis and Palestinians alike can live in peace, security and mutual recognition,” President Bio concluded.
