India Welcomes Israel-Hamas Ceasefire, Urges Continued Humanitarian Aid for Gaza

India has welcomed the recently announced ceasefire and hostage-release agreement between Israel and Hamas, according to a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on January 16, 2025. The MEA expressed hope that the deal would ensure a safe and sustained flow of humanitarian assistance to Gaza’s civilian population.

In an official communique, the MEA stated, “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, a ceasefire, and a return to dialogue and diplomacy.”

The ceasefire agreement was announced on January 15 by Qatar and the United States. Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani confirmed that the ceasefire would take effect on Sunday, describing it as a significant step toward resolving the Gaza conflict. Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden also praised the agreement, calling the negotiations some of the toughest of his career.

Hamas, in response, stated that the agreement was a result of the resilience of the Palestinian people and their resistance in Gaza.

India’s position underscores its consistent call for peace, the release of hostages, and diplomatic dialogue in the Israel-Palestine conflict, reflecting its commitment to a balanced approach to international disputes.