Homes, community centers and businesses were destroyed across Gaza. (Photo: Reuters)

(VOVworld) – The US and the UN have welcomed a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, hoping it will lead to long-lasting peace in the region.

In a statement Tuesday, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon expressed his hope that the extended ceasefire will be a prelude to a political process as the only way of achieving durable peace. He noted that a brighter future for Gaza and Israel depends on a sustainable ceasefire and that any violation of the truce is an irresponsible act. Ban called on Israeli and Palestinian officials to resume negotiations to reach final peace deal.

US Secretary of State John Kerry also welcomed the new ceasefire in Gaza and urged all parties to abide by its terms. Kerry also pushed for essential humanitarian activities to aid Palestinian civilians in Gaza.

The new ceasefire between Israel and Palestine brokered by Egypt took effect at 16.00 GMT on Tuesday after a 50-day conflict between Hamas and Israeli troops claimed the lives of thousands of Palestinians.