Modi Praises Trump's Leadership as Gaza Peace Efforts Advance
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has publicly welcomed the leadership of US President Donald Trump in the ongoing Gaza peace efforts, calling recent developments "decisive progress" after Hamas signaled its readiness to release hostages. Modi's endorsement adds India's influential voice to the global push for a resolution and marks a significant diplomatic gesture amid otherwise strained trade relations between the two nations.
A "Significant Step Forward"
In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the positive momentum. "We welcome President Trump’s leadership as peace efforts in Gaza make decisive progress. Indications of the release of hostages mark a significant step forward," he wrote. He also reiterated India's long-standing position, affirming that the country would "continue to strongly support all efforts towards a durable and just peace."
This public praise comes after Hamas announced it was prepared to release all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased, under the framework of the Trump-backed peace plan, and called for immediate negotiations to finalize the details.
Diplomacy Amidst Trade Tensions
Modi's supportive statement is particularly noteworthy given the recent friction in the US-India relationship. In August, President Trump imposed a steep 50 percent tariff on Indian exports, creating significant economic and diplomatic headwinds.
However, there have been recent small gestures aimed at mending ties. President Trump placed a late-night call to Prime Minister Modi in September to wish him a happy 75th birthday, a gesture Modi publicly acknowledged. More recently, Trump reposted a message from Modi that endorsed the Gaza peace plan, a move interpreted as a positive diplomatic signal. Modi's latest statement builds on this quiet diplomacy, suggesting a willingness to compartmentalize strategic foreign policy goals from bilateral trade disputes.
Cautious Global Optimism
The international community has reacted to the Hamas announcement with cautious optimism. Nations from Canada to Qatar have hailed the development as a positive step while emphasizing that any commitments must be quickly translated into concrete action grounded in trust and accountability. The United Nations has echoed these calls, reiterating the need for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the unconditional release of all captives.
