New Delhi, Jan 16 (NationPress) India expressed its support on Thursday for the ceasefire agreement in Gaza as well as the decision regarding the release of hostages between Israel and Hamas.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) conveyed optimism that this development would enable safe and continuous humanitarian assistance to Gaza.

"We commend the announcement of the agreement for the release of hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza. We are hopeful that this will ensure a safe and sustained flow of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza," the MEA remarked.

India reiterated its unwavering position, advocating for the release of hostages, a ceasefire, and a return to dialogue and diplomacy.

"We have persistently called for the release of all hostages, a ceasefire, and a return to a path of dialogue and diplomacy," the statement further noted.

The ceasefire agreement was achieved following weeks of negotiations facilitated by Qatar, Egypt, and the US in Doha.

Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani announced that 33 Israeli hostages would be released in the initial 42-day phase, which may potentially develop into a lasting ceasefire.

The preliminary release focuses on women, children, elderly individuals, and those who are ill or injured.

US President Joe Biden confirmed this pivotal development on Wednesday, stating during a briefing, "it is a very good afternoon now" and added, "Soon, the hostages will return home to their families."

Biden noted that Israel would release Palestinian prisoners in exchange.

During the first phase of the ceasefire deal, he mentioned, "Palestinians can return home to their neighborhoods, and humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip will be increased."

Biden also indicated that Israel and Hamas would engage in negotiations in the second phase to arrange for what would be a permanent cessation of hostilities.

During the ceasefire, Israeli forces are anticipated to withdraw from highly populated areas of Gaza to facilitate prisoner exchanges, the return of displaced individuals, and the recovery of remains.

The conflict, which erupted on October 7, 2023, has resulted in catastrophic casualties.

The attack by Hamas on southern Israel resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the abduction of around 250 individuals. Israel's ensuing military actions in Gaza have reportedly led to over 46,000 Palestinian deaths, according to the Hamas-controlled Health Ministry.

The ceasefire is expected to commence on Sunday at 12:15 pm local time, pending approval from Israel's Cabinet and Supreme Court.