Cyprus’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, in a post on “X”, that it was profoundly appalled by the shocking images of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and called for an immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

It also urged the safe and unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance for civilians on a massive scale.

In its post, the Ministry said that “we are profoundly appalled by the shocking images of Israeli hostages still held by Hamas. We cannot overemphasize the urgency of the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages”.

The Ministry notedthat “we cannot overemphasize the urgency of a lasting ceasefire. There is no role for any terrorist group in the future Gaza”.

At the same time, it added, “safe and unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance for the civilians on a massive scale is imperative and absolutely urgent”.