Hamas releases all remaining Israeli hostages, PM Modi supports Trump's peace efforts

In a major breakthrough towards restoring peace in the Middle East, Hamas has handed over all 20 surviving Israeli hostages to the Red Cross in line with the Gaza ceasefire agreement, according to information. The hostages are being transferred to Israeli forces as part of a broader peace framework expected to be signed later today.The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the transfer, stating they are prepared for subsequent handovers, with additional releases anticipated later in the day. The release marks the first stage of the deal under which Hamas is set to free 20 hostages in exchange for over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
As news of the release broke, scenes of emotional relief swept across Israel. Families and friends of the hostages erupted in cheers as television channels announced that the hostages were safely in Red Cross custody. Across the country, tens of thousands gathered at public screenings to witness the long-awaited moment, with Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square becoming a focal point of national attention.The packed crowd in the square cheered and chanted “bring them home now” as the names of the released hostages were read on air. Many waved Israeli flags adorned with yellow hostage ribbons, while others held posters bearing the faces of those still held captive.Meanwhile, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog announced that the country’s highest civilian honor will be conferred upon U.S. President Donald Trump for his efforts in securing the hostages’ release and facilitating an end to the conflict.Adding to the anticipation surrounding his arrival, a “Thank You” message for U.S. President Donald Trump was spotted on Tel Aviv Beach, written in front of a branch of the U.S. Embassy ahead of his visit to Israel. The message reflected growing public appreciation for Washington’s role in mediating the truce and supporting the peace process.

A beautiful sight to see on Tel Aviv beach in front of US Embassy Branch Office. We are waiting on arrival of @realDonaldTrump at airport. ???? https://t.co/aBv2ViyKGo

— Ambassador Mike Huckabee (@GovMikeHuckabee) October 13, 2025

On the diplomatic front, India has also joined international efforts to stabilize the region. Union Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh arrived in Cairo on Monday morning as the special representative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the Gaza Peace Summit in Sharm el-Sheikh.The high-level summit, co-chaired by U.S. President Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, aims to finalize a comprehensive peace agreement to end the Gaza conflict. Leaders from over 20 nations are participating, highlighting a strong global consensus on the urgent need to restore peace and stability in the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday welcomed the release of all 20 Israeli hostages from Gaza after over two years in Hamas captivity, praising the “unwavering” peace efforts of US President Donald Trump and the “strong resolve” demonstrated by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "We welcome the release of all hostages after over two years of captivity. Their freedom stands as a tribute to the courage of their families, the unwavering peace efforts of President Trump and the strong resolve of Prime Minister Netanyahu. We support President Trump’s sincere efforts to bring peace to the region," PM Modi said in a post on X.