Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday welcomed the signing of the first phase of Donald Trump’s peace plan between Israel and Hamas, calling it “a step toward lasting peace.”  In a post on social media Modi praised the “strong leadership of PM Netanyahu” in facilitating the agreement.

He expressed hope that the deal which envisages the release of hostages and increased humanitarian assistance in Gaza will bring “respite” to those suffering, and pave the way for durable calm in the region.  India, Modi said, supports all diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring peace and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The agreement announced by Trump involves a partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and the release of a number of hostages and prisoners, under terms brokered with Qatari mediation.  Though uncertainty remains over several complex issues including disarmament of Hamas and governance of Gaza, the deal is viewed as the most significant breakthrough in the conflict to date.