Prime Minister Narendra Modi has voiced strong support for US President Donald Trump's proposed peace plan for Gaza, hailing it as a "significant step forward". This endorsement comes as Hamas has agreed to some elements of the 20-point resolution plan, signaling a potential breakthrough in the long-standing conflict.
PM Modi conveyed his support on social media, acknowledging President Trump's leadership in making decisive progress towards peace in Gaza. He specifically noted that indications of the release of hostages mark a significant step in the right direction. Modi reiterated India's commitment to supporting efforts towards achieving a durable and just peace in the region.
Trump's Gaza plan, unveiled after months of preparation and following Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington, outlines ambitious measures to end hostilities, ensure security, and rebuild Gaza. A key element of the plan is the disarmament of Hamas, with provisions for amnesty for members committed to peaceful coexistence and safe passage for those unwilling to disarm. The plan also envisions the deployment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF), backed by the US and Arab partners, to train Palestinian police, prevent the inflow of arms, and facilitate the movement of aid and goods.
India's backing of Trump's plan is viewed as a positive diplomatic gesture, acknowledging Trump's role as a peacemaker and aligning India with efforts to stabilize the region for its strategic and economic interests. India considers West Asia as part of its extended neighborhood, with strong ties to Israel, Iran, and Saudi Arabia.
PM Modi's support for the plan has been communicated in multiple languages, including English, Arabic, Hebrew, Spanish, French, Mandarin and Russian, signaling India's growing role in Middle Eastern peacemaking. Trump has acknowledged Modi's support by reposting his message on social media.
The plan has received mixed reactions internationally. Some, like Israeli opposition politician Benny Gantz, lauded Trump's efforts to secure a hostage deal and safeguard Israeli security, emphasizing that the plan must be implemented, hostages brought home, and Hamas's regime in Gaza replaced. Other nations, including Arab and Muslim countries, have welcomed Trump's efforts to end the war in Gaza and expressed confidence in his ability to find a path to peace.
However, the United Nations has stated that it is not a party to Trump's Gaza peace plan but is ready to support humanitarian efforts. Overall, China has expressed support for all efforts conducive to easing tensions between Palestine and Israel.
India has historically championed statehood for Palestinians and advocated for a two-state solution. This position has been reiterated by the Ministry of External Affairs on multiple occasions. India's support for Trump's plan aligns with its long-standing commitment to peace and stability in the region.
The endorsement of Trump's plan also comes at a time when US-India relations have faced some strain due to trade tensions. Despite these challenges, there have been recent gestures aimed at mending ties, including a phone call between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi.
