Intense Israel-Hamas War Paused: India, U.S., and Others Welcome Truce

The Ministry of External Affairs of India has released a statement welcoming the agreement for the release of hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza. The statement reads: “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.”

 

 

Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire after 15 months of intense war that began in October 2023. The violence, which has caused immense suffering on both sides, is set to pause on Sunday, January 19, 2025, following a deal mediated by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar.

 

 

 

 

Israeli Casualties: The war started with a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 Israelis. During the fighting, Hamas also took over 250 hostages.

 

 

Palestinian Casualties: In Gaza, over 46,000 Palestinians have died, including thousands of women and children. The region has been devastated by airstrikes and ground operations.

 

 

Hostages: While many hostages were killed during the violence, around 62 Israelis are believed to remain alive in Gaza.

 

 

 

1. Ceasefire Period: The truce will initially last for six weeks. During this time, Israeli troops will begin withdrawing from crowded areas in Gaza.

 

 

2. Hostage and Prisoner Exchange: Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages, including women and children, in phases over seven weeks. In exchange, Israel will free around 1,000 Palestinian prisoners.

 

 

3. Humanitarian Aid: The deal allows urgent humanitarian supplies to reach Gaza, where millions are in desperate need of food, water, and medical care.

 

 

 

 

The ceasefire is the result of extensive talks involving the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar. U.S. President Joe Biden described the deal as a critical step toward peace, emphasizing the importance of ending hostilities and reuniting families.

 

 

 

 

In Israel: While some Israelis welcome the truce, others are skeptical, fearing renewed violence. The agreement still needs full approval from the Israeli government.

 

From Hamas: The group agreed to the deal, partly due to international pressure and the prospect of harsher conditions under the incoming U.S. administration.

 

(With inputs from agencies)