PM Modi Hails Trump’s Role as Hamas Signals Hostage Release Under Gaza Peace Plan
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday welcomed US President Donald Trump’s involvement in the evolving Gaza peace framework, calling Hamas’s willingness to release hostages a “decisive step forward.”
“We welcome President Trump’s leadership as peace efforts in Gaza make decisive progress. Indications of the release of hostages mark a significant step forward,” PM Modi wrote on X, reaffirming India’s consistent support for “all efforts towards a durable and just peace” in the Middle East.
Balancing Strained Ties with Cooperation
Despite these strains, diplomatic gestures in recent months have signalled efforts to rebuild ties. In September, President Trump personally called PM Modi to wish him on his 75th birthday, a gesture warmly acknowledged by Modi. Earlier this month, Trump also reposted Modi’s endorsement of his Gaza peace plan on Truth Social, an act viewed as a positive signal in Washington and New Delhi alike.
Hamas Offers Breakthrough, but Uncertainty Remains
On Friday, Hamas announced it was prepared to release Israeli hostages — alive or deceased — and accept elements of Trump’s Gaza peace proposal. The group urged mediators to begin immediate negotiations to work out implementation details.
The announcement has sparked cautious optimism worldwide. Canada welcomed the commitment, describing it as a potential turning point if promises are translated into action. Ottawa reiterated its support for a two-state solution, calling for both security for Israel and sovereignty for Palestine.
The United Nations echoed these sentiments, urging Hamas to follow through on its pledge while calling for an immediate ceasefire, unconditional release of captives, and unrestricted humanitarian access. France, Qatar, and other nations also cautiously endorsed the move, stressing that any peace process must be anchored in trust, accountability, and long-term reconciliation.
A Possible Turning Point
For India, the developments reaffirm its consistent stance on Middle East peace while also providing a rare opportunity for positive alignment with Washington during a tense phase in bilateral relations. Whether Hamas’s announcement leads to real progress on the ground, however, remains uncertain.
As PM Modi noted, the latest developments represent “decisive progress,” but the challenge now lies in ensuring that commitments turn into lasting peace.
