PM Modi Welcomes Israeli Hostages' Release, Praises Trump's Peace Efforts in Middle East

Israel has confirmed that all remaining 20 Israeli hostages held by Hamas have been successfully released after over two years in captivity.

New Delhi:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his welcome for the release of Israeli hostages on Monday, acknowledging the "unwavering peace efforts" of US President Donald Trump and the "strong resolve" of Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu.

In a statement posted on X, PM Modi said: "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."

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

IDF spokesperson Effie Defrin described the occasion as "a defining moment" that "belongs to the people of Israel and to all those who believe in humanity," as the nation celebrated the hostages' return on the eve of Simchat Torah.

India has consistently condemned the October 7, 2023 terror attacks on Israel while expressing concern over civilian casualties in the Israel-Hamas conflict.

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

Additionally, India has emphasized the importance of delivering humanitarian assistance to the region in a safe, timely, and sustained manner.

India has reiterated its position in various international forums including the UN, BRICS, NAM, and Voice of Global South.

The Prime Minister and Minister of External Affairs have engaged with numerous leaders in the region and globally, including discussions with the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister of both Israel and Palestine on this critical issue.