New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday to congratulate him on the progress achieved under US President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza Peace Plan. During the call, Modi emphasized the importance of humanitarian assistance and condemned all forms of terrorism, saying, “We welcome the agreement on the release of hostages and enhanced humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza. Reaffirmed that terrorism in any form or manifestation is unacceptable anywhere in the world.”
The conversation came as Israel’s security cabinet approved a ceasefire and the phased release of hostages. The first phase of the agreement includes the exchange of hostages, withdrawal of Israeli forces from parts of Gaza, and the delivery of humanitarian aid. Hamas welcomed the deal, noting that it effectively ends the war in Gaza.
US President Donald Trump described the agreement as a “momentous breakthrough,” highlighting his administration’s role and international collaboration in brokering the ceasefire. Trump confirmed that the release of hostages would begin shortly and emphasized the importance of implementing the agreement fully.
The international response has been overwhelmingly positive. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed the move as a step toward global stability and expressed hope for an end to civilian suffering in Gaza. French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the diplomatic efforts, urging all parties to adhere strictly to the agreement.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Qatar’s Prime Minister Majed Al Ansari also welcomed the agreement, confirming that all provisions and implementation mechanisms for the first phase had been finalized. The deal covers the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, as well as the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu described the day as “a great day for Israel” and expressed gratitude to the military, security forces, and international mediators for helping secure the hostages’ release. Hamas issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to the agreement while emphasizing its national rights, including freedom, independence, and self-determination.
The ceasefire and phased release of hostages are expected to take effect immediately, marking a historic step toward ending hostilities in Gaza and paving the way for lasting peace and humanitarian relief in the region.
