PM Modi welcomes release of Israeli hostages; lauds Donald Trump's 'unwavering peace efforts', Netanyahu's strong resolve

Prime Minister Narendra Modi , on Monday, welcomed the release of all Israeli hostages in Gaza after more than two years of captivity, calling it a historic moment and a victory for diplomacy. The PM also acknowledged the courage of the families of the hostages and hailed the "unwavering peace efforts" of US President Donald Trump and the "strong resolve" of Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu .

"We welcome the release of all hostages after over two years of captivity. Their freedom stands as a tribute to the courage of their families, the unwavering peace efforts of President Trump and the strong resolve of Prime Minister Netanyahu. We support President Trump’s sincere efforts to bring peace to the region," PM Modi posted on X.

Earlier in the day today, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that all the 20 remaining living Israeli hostages have been released by Hamas and returned to Israeli authorities after spending more than two years in captivity in Gaza.

"Today, after seven hundred and thirty-eight days, the last 20 living hostages have come home. This is a defining moment. A moment that belongs to the people of Israel and to all those who believe in humanity," said IDF spokesperson Effie Defrin, as the country celebrated the return of the hostages on the eve of Simchat Torah.

India had strongly condemned the terror attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023 and also the loss of civilian lives in the Israel-Hamas conflict.

"India has consistently called for release of all hostages, ceasefire and peaceful resolution of conflict through dialogue and diplomacy," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has maintained.

“India remains concerned at the security situation and has called for a ceasefire, release of all hostages and peaceful resolution of conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. India emphasized the need for safe, timely and sustained delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine,” it said.

India's position has been reiterated in various bilateral and multilateral forums such as UN, BRICS, NAM, Voice of Global South, etc.

The Prime Minister and the Minister of External Affairs have spoken to several leaders in the region and across the globe, including President, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Israel and President, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Palestine on the issue in the past.

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