India welcomed the three-phase ceasefire and hostages release agreement between Israel and Hamas, expressing hope that it would lead to a "safe and sustained supply of humanitarian assistance" to the people of Gaza.

• The ceasefire and hostage release agreement between Israel and Hamas, the group controlling Gaza, was announced after months of mediation by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.
• The deal follows 15 months of conflict that devastated the Gaza Strip and escalated tensions in many parts of the region.
• It is expected to come into effect on Sunday( 18 January) if both sides fully approve it.