India welcomed the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas and expressed hope that the latest development would lead to a “safe and sustained supply of humanitarian assistance” to the people of Gaza where over 40,000 Palestinians have been killed in the 15-month-long war.
“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 release of all hostages, ceasefire, and return to a path of dialogue and diplomacy,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
India welcomed the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas and expressed hope that the latest development would lead to a “safe and sustained supply of humanitarian assistance” to the people of Gaza where over 40,000 Palestinians have been killed in the 15-month-long war.
“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 release of all hostages, ceasefire, and return to a path of dialogue and diplomacy,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
How Would Ceasefire Agreement Be Implemented?
The ceasefire would take effect on January 19 in three phases.
The draft proposes a six-week ceasefire, a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and a phased release of hostages from Gaza and Palestinian prisoners from Israel.
The early phase focuses on a six-week ceasefire, during which 33 Israeli hostages, including all women, children, and men above 50 years of age, will be released by Hamas.
Israel, in turn, will also release the Palestinian prisoners.
Negotiations for the second phase will begin by the 16th day of the initial phase. All remaining hostages are expected to be released in this phase. It will also seek a permanent ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of the Israeli forces from Gaza.
The third and final phase of the agreement is anticipated to center on humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts. This phase will involve the return of all remaining deceased individuals to their families and the restoration of Gaza. International mediators, including Egypt, Qatar, and the United Nations (UN), will oversee the process to ensure its effective implementation.
