India welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas and the decision to release hostages on Thursday. The MEA hoped the agreement would enable sustained humanitarian aid to Gaza.
“We welcome the announcement of the agreement for the release of hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza. The MEA hopes this will ensure safe, sustained humanitarian aid to Gaza.
India reiterated its long-standing position, calling for the release of all hostages, an immediate ceasefire, and a return to dialogue and diplomacy. “We have consistently called for the release of all hostages, ceasefire, and a return to a path of dialogue and diplomacy,” the MEA added.
The ceasefire agreement followed weeks of negotiations led by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. Qatar’s Prime Minister confirmed the agreement will release 33 Israeli hostages in the first 42-day phase.
This initial phase prioritizes women, children, the elderly, and the ill or injured. The release of hostages could lead to a permanent ceasefire.
US President Joe Biden confirmed the ceasefire and hostage release agreement on Wednesday, describing the development as a “very good afternoon.” He announced that Israel would soon return the hostages to their families and release Palestinian prisoners in exchange.
Biden explained that during the first phase of the ceasefire, Palestinians would return home and humanitarian aid would increase. He added that Israel and Hamas would negotiate further arrangements for a permanent resolution.
As part of the ceasefire, Israeli forces are expected to withdraw from densely populated areas of Gaza. This will facilitate prisoner exchanges, the return of displaced individuals, and the retrieval of remains.
Israel’s Cabinet and Supreme Court must approve the ceasefire, which is set to take effect on Sunday at 12:15 pm local time.
With the ceasefire set to begin, both Israel and Hamas face significant challenges in negotiating the terms of a lasting peace.
Also Read: Gaza War: Israel And Hamas Reach Ceasefire, Hostage Release Deal
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