Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed US President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing Israel–Hamas conflict in Gaza. India, which advocates a two-state solution and peaceful coexistence, reiterated its support for all diplomatic efforts towards regional stability.
Key Provisions of the Peace Plan
- Deradicalisation of Gaza: Transforming Gaza into a terror-free zone without threats to neighbouring countries.
- Immediate Ceasefire: Suspension of all military operations between Israel and Hamas.
- Hostage Release: All hostages (living or deceased) to be returned within 72 hours of Israel’s acceptance.
- Interfaith Dialogue: A global platform for tolerance and reconciliation among Jews, Christians, and Muslims.
- Economic Revival: Establishment of a special economic zone, investment initiatives, and large-scale job creation.
Background of the Israel–Hamas Conflict
- Historical Roots: The conflict traces back to the 1947 UN Partition Plan, which proposed separate Jewish and Arab states. Arabs rejected the plan, while Jews declared Israel’s independence in 1948, leading to successive wars.
- Oslo Accords (1993): Signed between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) to establish peace. Hamas opposed the agreement, continuing armed resistance.
- Recent Escalation: In October 2023, Hamas launched Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, killing over 1,200 Israelis. Israel retaliated with extensive military operations, resulting in 64,000+ casualties in Gaza, creating a severe humanitarian crisis.
India’s Stand
- India supports a sovereign, independent Palestine living peacefully alongside Israel.
- It maintains balanced relations with both Israel and Palestine, providing humanitarian aid to Gaza while also strengthening defence cooperation with Israel.
- Welcoming the US initiative aligns with India’s long-standing call for dialogue, non-violence, and respect for international law.
Significance
- For West Asia: If successful, the plan could end one of the most intractable conflicts in modern history.
- For India: Stability in the region secures energy supplies, ensures diaspora safety, and strengthens India’s diplomatic footprint as a responsible global actor.