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    HomeEnglish NewsIndia Welcomes Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hamas

    India Welcomes Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hamas

    India has welcomed the ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas, expressing hope that the development will pave the way for a sustained and safe supply of humanitarian assistance to Gaza, which has witnessed over 40,000 Palestinian casualties in a prolonged 15-month conflict.

    The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement on Thursday, stating, “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 a return to a path of dialogue and diplomacy.”

    The agreement, announced by the United States and Qatar after months of negotiations involving Egyptian and Qatari mediators backed by the US, is set to come into effect on January 19. The deal outlines a three-phase plan:

    A six-week ceasefire will be implemented.

    Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages, prioritizing women, children, and men over 50 years of age.

    Israel will reciprocate by releasing Palestinian prisoners.

    Commencing on the 16th day of the initial phase, negotiations will address the release of all remaining hostages and aim for a permanent ceasefire.

    The Israeli forces are expected to complete their withdrawal from Gaza during this phase.

    Focused on humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts, this phase will involve the repatriation of deceased individuals to their families and the restoration of Gaza.

    The process will be overseen by international mediators, including Egypt, Qatar, and the United Nations, to ensure its effective execution.

    The agreement comes just days before the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, who has adopted a tough stance on the situation in Gaza. Trump has warned Hamas that failure to release hostages before his administration takes office on January 20 would result in severe consequences, stating that Hamas would have “hell to pay.”

    The ceasefire has been widely anticipated, with international stakeholders emphasizing the dire need for humanitarian assistance in Gaza. The agreement is expected to facilitate the delivery of aid, alleviating the suffering of civilians affected by the prolonged conflict.

    As the world watches closely, the success of the ceasefire agreement will depend on its implementation and the willingness of both parties to honor the terms of the deal.

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