Pretoria - Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire following a week of violence in Gaza which left scores dead and injured.
This was announced during a media briefing in Cairo, Egypt, on Wednesday, by the Egyptian Foreign Minister Mohammed Kamel Amr. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also attended.
According to media reports, the ceasefire was set to take effect at 9 pm Cairo time.
More than 140 Palestinians, and five Israelis, have been killed in the conflict.
South Africa's Cabinet had meanwhile expressed sadness at the fresh outbreak of violence in Palestine and condemned in the strongest terms, the disproportionate use of force by the Israeli government.
Acting Cabinet spokesperson Phumla Williams said on Thursday, following an ordinary meeting of Cabinet, that the use of force had resulted in a significant number of deaths and injuries, particularly among the Palestinian civilians, including children.
Last week government called for a peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Ebrahim Ebrahim said at the time South Africa remained hopeful that a peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine would be achieved through negotiations.
Williams said Cabinet was also concerned at the escalation of violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
"This flaring violence has resulted in a significant number of deaths and injuries and the displacement of many people, including children. South Africa remains committed in ensuring that Africa achieves peace and stability. Africa has shown great potential for economic growth and development."
She said Cabinet called on the international community to support the peace initiatives that will result in lasting stability in the region. - SAnews.gov.za
