Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paused a crucial security cabinet meeting to take a call from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as discussions were underway on a ceasefire and hostage release agreement negotiated under US President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza Peace Plan, according to The Times of Israel.
During their conversation, Prime Minister Modi extended his congratulations to Netanyahu on the progress achieved through the peace initiative and the breakthrough agreement to free all hostages. Netanyahu’s office confirmed that Modi applauded the diplomatic strides made under Trump’s mediation efforts.
Following the conversation, PM Modi shared an update on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Called my friend, Prime Minister Netanyahu, to congratulate him on the progress made under President Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan. We welcome the agreement on the release of hostages and enhanced humanitarian assistance for Gaza. Reaffirmed that terrorism in any form or manifestation is unacceptable anywhere in the world.”
Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office also posted that Modi had personally congratulated Netanyahu on the success of the deal, underscoring India’s continued support for peace and stability in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, Israel’s government officially voted in favor of the ceasefire and hostage release framework, as reported by CNN. The announcement followed extensive deliberations led by Netanyahu and his ministers. “The government has now approved the outline for the release of all hostages — both living and deceased,” his office stated. Officials added that the ceasefire would take effect immediately.
Present at the decisive meeting in Jerusalem were Steve Witkoff, President Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, and his son-in-law Jared Kushner. The Israeli cabinet approved the first phase of the US-brokered deal, which includes an exchange of hostages and Israel’s partial withdrawal from Gaza, as reported by Al Jazeera.
Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya confirmed that the agreement guarantees a complete end to the war, citing US assurances. Earlier, President Trump announced that Israel and Hamas had reached the first phase of a peace plan that would bring the Gaza war to an end. He described the development as a “momentous breakthrough” and expressed hope for lasting peace in the region.
Addressing his cabinet in Washington, Trump said the agreement marked the end of the Gaza conflict and secured the release of all remaining hostages. He indicated plans to travel to Egypt for a formal signing ceremony, emphasizing that this milestone could herald a new era of stability in the Middle East.
