India welcomes Israel-Hamas ceasefire, reiterates call for dialogue and diplomacy

India issues statement on Israel-Hamas ceasefire

India has expressed support for the recent ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, emphasizing the need for dialogue and diplomacy to address the longstanding conflict.

Key details of the ceasefire agreement

Negotiators from Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement on a 42-day truce, accompanied by a hostage release. The ceasefire is set to take effect on January 19, as confirmed by US President Joe Biden and Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. The deal comes after over 460 days of intense conflict that has left Gaza severely devastated.

India’s response

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs released a brief statement welcoming the ceasefire and the hostage release agreement. “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. We have consistently called for the release of all hostages, ceasefire, and return to a path of dialogue and diplomacy,” the statement read.

Background of the conflict

The conflict escalated following Hamas’s large-scale attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of nearly 1,200 people. In response, Israel launched extensive retaliatory attacks, leading to the deaths of over 46,000 Palestinians in Gaza.

Ongoing challenges

While the ceasefire agreement marks a significant step, several logistical and procedural issues remain unresolved. Qatar’s prime minister indicated that some details of the agreement are still under discussion. Similarly, the Israeli Prime Minister’s office stated that the deal requires formal ratification by the Israeli cabinet.

The agreement’s initial phase includes:

• A six-week truce.
• Limited prisoner exchanges.
• Partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
• A significant influx of humanitarian aid to the region.

Reports suggest that 33 Israeli hostages taken during the October 7 attacks will be released in exchange for numerous Palestinian prisoners. However, around 100 Israeli hostages are still believed to be in Gaza, with some feared dead.

India’s balancing act

India has taken a nuanced approach throughout the conflict. While it initially expressed solidarity with Israel, citing its zero-tolerance policy on terrorism, India later called for restraint and highlighted the importance of addressing humanitarian concerns. This balanced stance reflects India’s strategic ties with Israel and its deep connections with Arab states, which are vital sources of energy and defense collaboration.

Humanitarian concerns

As the conflict progressed, India consistently advocated for unimpeded humanitarian aid to Gaza and a return to dialogue aimed at achieving a two-state solution. With West Asia home to nine million Indians, including six million in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, stability in the region remains a critical concern for India.

India’s diplomatic stance underscores the importance of peaceful resolution and sustained efforts to alleviate the suffering of civilians affected by the conflict.

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