In the aftermath of the recent attacks on Israeli towns by Hamas and other factions, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a phone conversation with his Israeli counterpart, Benjamin Netanyahu. This communication marked the first contact between the two leaders since the attacks, which escalated tensions in the region, resulting in the loss of approximately 900 Israeli lives and retaliatory strikes causing the deaths of about 700 Palestinians.
During the phone call, Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s strong condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, as per a statement from the external affairs ministry. He expressed deep condolences and sympathy for the victims of the terrorist attacks in Israel and conveyed the solidarity of the people of India with Israel.
Prime Minister Modi also addressed the issue of the safety and security of Indian citizens residing in Israel. In response, Prime Minister Netanyahu assured Modi of full cooperation and support in this regard. The two leaders agreed to maintain close communication.
In a social media post, Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Netanyahu for the phone call and the update on the situation. He stated, “People of India stand firmly with Israel in this difficult hour. India strongly and unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.”
Prime Minister Modi had previously expressed his shock over the terrorist attacks in Israel shortly after they occurred. He reiterated India’s solidarity with Israel during that time.
Approximately 18,000 Indian citizens, including around 900 Indian students, reside in Israel. They are engaged in various professions, such as caregiving for the elderly, diamond trading, and IT-related work. Currently, there are no plans to evacuate Indian nationals from Israel, as most of them live in areas that are distant from the locations targeted by Hamas. Indian authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared for any eventualities, as reported by sources.
The Indian embassy in Israel had issued an advisory following the attacks, urging Indian citizens to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary movement.
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Source: Hindustan Times
