EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has said there needs to be an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, adding to international pressure for a truce deal between Israel and Hamas, AFP reports.

“We need a ceasefire in Gaza now. That’s the only way to save lives, restore hope for peace and secure the return of hostages,” von der Leyen wrote on X.

“Thus I strongly support the efforts led by the US, Egypt, and Qatar to help achieve the peace and stability the region needs.”