PM Modi welcomes, says hostage release a ‘significant step forward’

New Delhi, Oct 4: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed US President Donald Trump’s leadership in peace efforts for Gaza, calling the reported readiness of Hamas to release Israeli hostages a “significant step forward” in ongoing humanitarian and diplomatic efforts.

In a post on X, PM Modi said: “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. India will continue to strongly support all efforts towards a durable and just peace.”

Hamas early morning Saturday signalled it was prepared to release all remaining Israeli hostages under the framework of the US plan, while seeking further negotiations on certain points, the BBC reported. A Hamas spokesperson told the BBC that Trump’s comments were “encouraging,” adding that the group was ready to begin talks “to achieve a prisoner exchange, end the war, and secure the withdrawal of the occupation.”

Qatar welcomed the Hamas statement and said it was coordinating with Egypt and the US to resume ceasefire talks. Trump, in response, declared that Hamas was “ready for a lasting peace,” urging Israel to stop its bombing campaign in Gaza so that hostages could be released safely. The development comes just days after Trump set a Sunday deadline for Hamas to accept the 20-point US peace plan – already accepted by Israel – or face “all hell.” The plan calls for an immediate ceasefire, the staged release of hostages, and Hamas’s disarmament, while ruling out the group’s role in governing Gaza.