India Backs Israel-Hamas Ceasefire and Hostage Release Deal

India has welcomed the news of the Israel-Hamas deal on the ceasefire and release of hostages. The country expects this to clear the way for a “safe and sustained supply of humanitarian assistance” to Gaza. The Indian Foreign Ministry stated on Wednesday welcomed the historic agreement after more than 15 months of brutal conflict that devastated the region.

Agreement Details and Humanitarian Impact

According to the three-phased plan outlined by this agreement, there will be a six-week ceasefire, followed by the slow withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. The hostage release from Hamas in return for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The deal marks a turning point toward ending the devastating war that has claimed tens of thousands of lives in Gaza. It also addresses the destruction of unimaginable proportions caused by the conflict.

India reiterates its consistent call for the release of all hostages, a ceasefire, and the resumption of dialogue and diplomacy between the conflicting parties. “We hope this will lead to a safe and sustained supply of humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza,” the statement read, underlining the humanitarian aid that must be supplied following the conflict.

The United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross are scaling up their operations in Gaza, expecting the surge in humanitarian aid to provide essential relief to the war-affected population.

Israel Continued Strikes and Awaiting Official Approval

Hours after the Palestinian authorities announced a deal, Israel intensified airstrikes on Gaza, it said. Israel’s government hasn’t accepted the deal, although it still awaits approval from the country’s security cabinet and government. The government is scheduling votes on the deal for Thursday.

Israeli forces continued heavy bombardment overnight, with reports indicating that they killed at least 32 people in Gaza City on Wednesday night. Strikes also targeted areas in Rafah, Nuseirat, and northern Gaza. The escalation of violence has cast a shadow over the hopes for peace, leaving many wondering whether the ceasefire will hold.