United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is welcoming news that Israel and Hamas have agreed to pause in their devastating two-year war and the release of the remaining hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Guterres urged all parties to fully abide by the terms of the agreement, and to fully embrace the opportunities it presents. He said all hostages must be released in a dignified manner and a permanency's fire must be secured.

"The bloodshed must stop once and for all. And the United Nations will provide its full support," Guterres said.