Israel-Hamas War / PM Modi Welcomes Israeli Hostage Release, Praises Trump's Peace Efforts

The conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, ongoing for nearly two years, has paused. Under a recent ceasefire agreement, Hamas on Monday released 20 live Israeli hostages, with Israel in turn releasing over 1900 Palestinian prisoners, while this exchange coincides with US President Donald Trump's visit to Israel to celebrate the ceasefire and hostage agreement. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has now issued his first. Statement regarding this development and the release of the Israeli hostages. Commenting on the release of Israeli hostages by Hamas on Monday, PM Modi stated, "We welcome the release of all hostages after more than two years of captivity. Their freedom is a tribute to the courage of their families, President Trump's unwavering peace efforts, and Prime Minister Netanyahu's strong resolve. " He further added, "We support President Trump's sincere efforts to bring peace to the region. " This statement underscores India's stance on humanitarian issues and its support for global peace initiatives.

Background of the Conflict and Current Status

The Israel-Hamas war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas infiltrated Israel, carrying out a massacre that killed approximately 1200 Israelis and took around 250 others hostage to Gaza. Since then, Israel launched its war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Local health officials in Gaza affiliated with Hamas claim that over 67,000 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict. Following the ceasefire agreement, US President Donald Trump arrived in. Israel on Monday morning and addressed the Israeli parliament, the Knesset. Trump is also scheduled to co-chair a "peace summit" with regional and international leaders on Monday, aiming to bring a permanent end to the prolonged Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.