Modi Endorses Trump's Peace Initiatives Following Release of Hostages from Gaza

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the release of hostages held by Hamas, expressing support for US President Donald Trump's peace initiatives in the region. Modi reiterated India's commitment to a negotiated two-state solution during a peace summit in Sharm el-Sheikh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed relief as all 20 remaining hostages held by Hamas returned to Israel. Their release marked the end of over two years of captivity. Modi praised US President Donald Trump's efforts for peace in the region. His comments came before a peace summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, attended by global leaders.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reaffirmed India's support for a negotiated two-state solution. It emphasised India's commitment to lasting peace in the Middle East. The MEA appreciated Egypt and Qatar's roles in advancing peace efforts, aligning with President Trump's vision.

Peace Summit and Global Leaders

Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh represented India at the summit. The event was co-hosted by Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi. Leaders like UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif participated.

Earlier, Hamas released the hostages as part of Trump's Gaza peace plan's first phase. Modi stated on X, "We welcome the release of all hostages after over two years of captivity." He acknowledged the courage of the families and the efforts of Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Gaza Peace Plan Details

The Gaza peace plan involves Israel releasing nearly 2,000 prisoners and detainees. Trump addressed the Israeli parliament, describing the process as a new dawn for the Middle East. He envisioned a brighter future within reach for the region.

Israel's war in Gaza began after Hamas attacked Israeli cities on October 7, 2023, resulting in about 1,200 deaths. Hamas took 251 hostages, some released earlier. The ceasefire in Gaza started on Friday, following intense military operations.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The conflict has led to a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The World Health Organisation reported alarming malnutrition rates due to food and medicine shortages. Over 66,000 Palestinians have died since the conflict began, according to Gaza's health ministry.

The plan aims to transform Gaza into a deradicalised zone free from terror threats. Redevelopment efforts will focus on benefiting the people of Gaza. This aligns with India's long-standing support for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve regional issues.

The summit aimed to bolster regional peace and stability efforts. It reflected India's consistent backing for peaceful resolutions through dialogue. Modi reiterated India's support for Trump's sincere peace initiatives in his statements.

With inputs from PTI