Israel's Ambassador Endorses Trump's Gaza Peace Plan and Highlights PM Modi's Crucial Support for Regional Stability

New Delhi:

Israel's Ambassador to India Reuven Azar has expressed strong support for US President Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan, describing it as a "realistic pathway" toward ending the prolonged conflict. In his interview with NDTV's Aditya Raj Kaul, Azar emphasized the significance of global backing for the proposal, particularly highlighting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's endorsement as adding substantial credibility.

Ambassador Azar outlined Israel's view that this plan represents a critical opportunity to stabilize Gaza, eliminate Hamas's control, and establish conditions for lasting peace and reconstruction. "Either Hamas agrees diplomatically, or our military campaign will continue, but with international consensus," he stated. "We are committed to ending this conflict and creating a better future for both ourselves and our neighbors."

President Trump recently unveiled the comprehensive peace initiative that includes a 72-hour deadline for Israeli hostages' return once Israel accepts the plan. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has already indicated Israel's acceptance. The proposal explicitly excludes Hamas from Gaza's future governance and emphasizes "de-radicalisation" alongside reformed Palestinian governance structures.

Azar reflected on historical missteps, noting, "We made significant mistakes previously when relinquishing power without ensuring a reformed Palestinian government. This presents a new opportunity." He stressed that international involvement must have "solid foundations" rather than symbolic peacekeeping efforts that have failed elsewhere, such as in Lebanon.

The Ambassador particularly praised Prime Minister Modi's public support for the US proposal. Modi had characterized the plan as "a viable pathway for long-term sustainable peace, security and development for the Palestinian and Israeli people, as also for the larger West Asian region."

Describing Modi's statement as "a great message," Azar affirmed that Israel is "completely in sync" with both Trump's vision and Modi's emphasis on countering terrorism, enhancing economic cooperation, and providing security and opportunity. "These align perfectly with Indian policy," he said, suggesting India could play a meaningful role in Gaza's reconstruction efforts.

Ambassador Azar highlighted significant opportunities for Indian companies in future reconstruction projects. With Israel planning $200 billion in domestic infrastructure development and Gaza's rebuilding potentially requiring up to $50 billion, he noted, "Indian companies that have demonstrated their capacity to develop India could contribute substantially to rebuilding our region as well."

He drew parallels between India's steadfast position against terrorism and Israel's security priorities, emphasizing their shared principle that "terrorism cannot be contextualised - opposition to terrorism must be universal."

While acknowledging uncertainty regarding Hamas's response, Azar expressed cautious optimism that international and regional pressure might influence the group toward acceptance. He noted that several Arab and Muslim nations have already supported Trump's plan, creating an unusual alignment of interests. Even Pakistan's endorsement could represent "a good step forward" if accompanied by genuine commitment to combating terrorism.

As the deadline approaches, Azar emphasized that Israel wishes to avoid military escalation but remains prepared if Hamas rejects the terms. "We don't prefer this path as it endangers hostages and risks further bloodshed we want to prevent," he explained. "Having a comprehensive plan with Arab countries committed to pressuring Hamas is promising. I hope it succeeds."

The ambassador concluded that this represents a rare opportunity to break the cycle of violence. "We've experienced enough war," he stated. "This vision offers a realistic path to peace, unlike the unrealistic approaches we've seen previously."