×
 

PM Modi Endorses Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan as Hamas Agrees to Hostage Release

PM Modi applauds Trump’s Gaza peace efforts.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised U.S. President Donald Trump's efforts to broker peace in Gaza, describing indications of hostage releases as a "significant step" just hours after Hamas announced partial acceptance of Trump's 20-point peace plan. In a post on X, Modi welcomed the developments, stating, "We welcome President Trump’s leadership as peace efforts in Gaza make decisive progress. Indications of the release of hostages mark a significant step forward. India will continue to strongly support all efforts towards a durable and just peace." This endorsement builds on Modi's earlier support for the plan, which he called a "viable pathway to long-term and sustainable peace" for Palestinians, Israelis, and the broader West Asian region.

The 20-point proposal, unveiled by Trump on September 30 alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, outlines an immediate ceasefire, the release of all 48 remaining Israeli hostages—around 20 believed alive—in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, a phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, Hamas disarmament, and the establishment of an international transitional authority to govern the territory.

It also includes provisions for unrestricted humanitarian aid, infrastructure rehabilitation, and amnesty for Hamas members committing to peaceful coexistence, with guarantees from Arab partners like Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan to ensure compliance. Netanyahu has endorsed the plan, which aligns with Israel's security demands, while emphasising that rejection by Hamas would allow operations to "finish the job" against the group.

Hamas's response on Friday night, conveyed through mediators, affirmed agreement on key elements such as ending the war, Israeli withdrawal, hostage and prisoner exchanges, aid delivery, and opposition to Palestinian expulsions, but sought further negotiations on governance and Palestinian rights. The group reiterated its willingness to hand over Gaza's administration to a Palestinian technocratic body backed by Arab and Islamic consensus, without addressing disarmament or Trump's proposed "Board of Peace" oversight committee.

This came amid Trump's ultimatum for acceptance by Sunday 6 p.m. ET or face severe consequences, including escalated military action. Analysts note the partial accord as a pragmatic move by Hamas under pressure from regional allies, though full implementation hinges on resolving sticking points like deradicalisation and border security.

Also Read: PM Modi Condemns Violation of Qatar’s Sovereignty After Israeli Strikes on Doha

Trump reacted optimistically on Truth Social, urging Israel to "immediately stop the bombing of Gaza" to enable safe hostage extractions and declaring, "I believe they are ready for a lasting PEACE." In a video message, he thanked mediating nations for their unity in ending the conflict, calling it a "very special day" and expressing hope for hostages' return, including remains to grieving families. The Israel-Hamas war, triggered by Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack that killed 1,200 and abducted 250, has since claimed over 41,000 Palestinian lives per Gaza's Health Ministry, displacing most of the 2.3 million residents and drawing global calls for de-escalation.

Modi's vocal backing, reshared by Trump earlier, underscores India's diplomatic stake in Middle East stability amid its growing ties with both Israel and Arab states.

Also Read: Donald Trump Urges Israel to Pause Gaza Offensive for Ceasefire Talks

 
 
 
Gallery Gallery Videos Videos Share on WhatsApp Share