Tharoor Welcomes Ceasefire, Urges Durable Peace and Gaza Rebuilding

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor Welcomes Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Deal

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor welcomed the announcement of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal but cautioned that past ceasefires have been short-lived. He emphasized the importance of continuing releases, addressing the humanitarian crisis, and working towards rebuilding Gaza.

Speaking to ANI, Tharoor said, "We have seen brief ceasefires before, including when hostages were released. We also know that in those circumstances the fighting resumed very quickly. What we all want to see is a durable peace."

He added, "There should be further releases and the matter should be resolved so that rebuilding of Gaza can begin. Let us now try and turn the page in some way towards rebuilding, reconstruction and new hope for the survivors."

Tharoor also expressed his condolences for the lives lost in the conflict. "No one can bring back the lives that have been lost. We definitely do not want to ever see this war come back."

Ceasefire and Hostage Deal Announced

Earlier on Wednesday, Qatar, Egypt, and the US confirmed in a joint statement that Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire and hostage release deal, likely to take effect on January 19.

The deal, structured in three phases, includes a complete ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the release of hostages, including Americans, in the first phase.

US President Joe Biden also announced the successful negotiation of the ceasefire and hostage deal, ending over 15 months of conflict. He highlighted the diplomatic effort involved, noting the pressure from Israel and US support, as well as a coalition of 20 countries that stood against attacks from the Houthis.

Following the ceasefire and hostage deal, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu engaged in discussions with US President-elect Donald Trump and current President Joe Biden.