PM Modi welcomes the release of Israeli hostages, praising Donald Trump’s peace efforts and Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership. India reiterates its call for peace, dialogue, and humanitarian aid amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday welcomed the release of all Israeli hostages from Hamas captivity, calling it a “moment of humanity’s triumph” and lauding the “unwavering peace efforts” of former US President Donald Trump along with the “strong resolve” of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
“We welcome the release of all hostages after over two years of captivity. Their freedom stands as a tribute to the courage of their families, the unwavering peace efforts of President Trump, and the strong resolve of Prime Minister Netanyahu. We support President Trump’s sincere efforts to bring peace to the region,” PM Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter).
His statement came shortly after the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that all 20 remaining living hostages held by Hamas had been released and safely returned to Israeli authorities after spending more than two years in captivity in Gaza.
“Today, after seven hundred and thirty-eight days, the last 20 living hostages have come home. This is a defining moment. A moment that belongs to the people of Israel and to all those who believe in humanity,” IDF spokesperson Effie Defrin announced as the country celebrated the homecoming on the eve of Simchat Torah, a major Jewish festival symbolizing joy and renewal.
The release marks an emotional turning point for Israel and its allies, closing one of the most painful chapters since the October 7, 2023, terror attacks, when Hamas militants launched an unprecedented assault on Israel, killing and abducting civilians.
India, which has consistently condemned terrorism in all its forms, was among the first countries to express solidarity with Israel following the 2023 attacks. New Delhi also called for restraint, dialogue, and diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict while ensuring the safety of civilians on both sides.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated India’s long-standing position that the release of hostages and a peaceful settlement through negotiation remain the only viable path toward lasting peace in the Middle East.
“India has consistently called for the release of all hostages, a ceasefire, and a peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy,” an MEA spokesperson stated.
In addition to condemning the terror attacks, India has been actively advocating for the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza and other affected areas. The MEA underlined the importance of “safe, timely, and sustained” humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of civilians trapped in the conflict.
Over the past two years, Prime Minister Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar have engaged in numerous diplomatic discussions with global and regional leaders—including the presidents, prime ministers, and foreign ministers of both Israel and Palestine—to promote peace, stability, and mutual understanding in the region.
India’s position has been voiced at major international platforms such as the United Nations, BRICS, the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), and the Voice of Global South Summit. New Delhi’s balanced diplomatic approach, emphasizing both the right to security and the necessity of humanitarian concern, has been appreciated globally.
The release of hostages has been widely interpreted as a positive step toward reducing tensions and possibly reviving regional peace talks. While President Trump’s backchannel diplomacy reportedly played a critical role in brokering the deal, Israel’s leadership and determination were instrumental in ensuring the safe return of its citizens.
Observers note that Prime Minister Modi’s message underscores India’s support for peace efforts that uphold international humanitarian values while respecting the sovereignty and security of nations. His words also signal New Delhi’s readiness to engage more deeply in promoting dialogue and stability in West Asia—a region critical to India’s strategic and energy interests.
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As celebrations erupt in Israel with families finally reunited after years of uncertainty, global leaders have called the development a beacon of hope in a region often marred by conflict. Modi’s statement, blending empathy and diplomacy, reflects India’s consistent advocacy for peace through dialogue, compassion, and cooperation.
