Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed Hamas’s partial acceptance of the US-backed Gaza peace proposal, describing it as a promising step toward lasting stability in the region. In a post on X, Modi commended former US President Donald Trump’s leadership in steering the peace process forward, saying recent developments marked “decisive progress.” Tagging Trump in his message, Modi noted that indications of hostages being released represented a meaningful stride toward restoring normalcy in Gaza.
Reaffirming India’s consistent support for peace in the Middle East, Modi stated that the country would “continue to strongly support all efforts toward a durable and just peace.” This was the second time in a week that the Indian leader publicly endorsed Trump’s peace initiative. Last week, Modi had also welcomed Trump’s comprehensive 20-point plan aimed at ending the prolonged Gaza conflict—a gesture that Trump later acknowledged by reposting on his Truth Social account.
Modi’s warm remarks toward Trump come at a crucial juncture, as both nations work to rebuild ties following months of diplomatic tension. The renewed appreciation for Trump’s role contrasts with the strained tone of recent years, particularly after the former US president imposed trade tariffs on India and made controversial remarks about mediating in South Asian conflicts.
The two leaders recently reconnected when Trump called Modi on his birthday after a three-month pause in communication, signaling a thaw in relations. The same day, India and the US resumed negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement that both governments view as central to restoring balance in the partnership. Modi reiterated that both sides remained committed to “taking the relationship to new heights.”
Diplomatic sources indicate that progress in trade talks could determine whether Modi and Trump meet on the sidelines of the upcoming ASEAN and East Asia summits in Malaysia. While Trump’s participation is yet to be confirmed, officials in New Delhi remain optimistic. Modi’s statement on Saturday followed Hamas’s announcement that it would release Israeli hostages as part of the US peace plan, though the group has not yet commented on proposals requiring it to disarm—a key element of Trump’s initiative for a lasting ceasefire.
