New Delhi: India today (Jul 24, 2004) made an appeal through television networks in Iraq, Kuwait, Oman and some other Gulf countries for release of the hostages, including three Indians, being held captive by a group in Iraq.

The appeal was made by Minister of State for External Affairs E Ahamed and broadcast over Iraq National Television Channel one and two, al-Arabia network and television stations in Kuwait and Oman, External Affairs Ministry sources said.

Ahamed said in his broadcast that the hostages were innocent people and urged their captors to free them.

The Minister said India has taken a firm decision against sending troops to Iraq, has raised its voice internationally for the Gulf country's sovereignty, provided humanitarian assistance to Iraqi people and upheld the Arab cause.

India, he said had cordial and historic relations with Arab countries and in particular with Iraq.