How India reacted to Israel-Hamas Gaza ceasefire, hostage release deal

The ministry of external affairs released a statement regarding the agreement on the release of hostages and the ceasefire in Gaza.

Updated on: Jan 16, 2025, 12:56:52 IST

By HT News Desk

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

India on Thursday welcomed the agreement between Israel and Hamas on the release of hostages and ceasefire in Gaza. The ministry of external affairs said India hoped that this would lead to a safe and sustained supply of humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza.

Palestinians celebrate the imminent announcement of a ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel. (AP photo) (HT_PRINT)

"We welcome the announcement of the agreement for the release of hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza. We hope this will lead to a safe and sustained supply of humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza," the MEA statement read.

According to the prime minister of Qatar, the ceasefire in Gaza will take effect from Sunday, with the phased release of 33 Israeli captives. US President Joe Biden mentioned that the truce would unfold in a phased manner.

Hamas launched an unforeseen attack on Israel

The conflict began on October 7, 2024, when Hamas launched an unforeseen attack on Israel, resulting in an accelerated and catastrophic response. This escalation turned into an all-out war that destroyed Gaza and claimed numerous lives. The ceasefire accord provides a glimmer of real hope for peace after months of misery in the region, but long-term success is questionable.

Also Read: Israel, Hamas seal ceasefire agreement; end 15-month-long Gaza war

While parts of Gaza celebrated a ceasefire agreement, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared late Wednesday that the details of the agreement with Hamas are still being worked out.

Israeli airstrikes continued

Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the prime minister of Qatar, declared at a press conference in Doha that the truce will start on Sunday. Despite this change, locals stated that Israeli airstrikes continued till Wednesday evening. According to local health authorities, the ongoing fighting in Gaza has claimed the lives of more than 46,000 people. Medical workers verified that at least 32 persons were killed in airstrikes in Gaza City and northern Gaza.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

Follow India news real-time updates and the latest news covered on Hindustan Times, featuring today's critical updates on Sonam Wangchuk LIVE and more across India.