India and Israel Discuss Ongoing West Asia Situation in Telephonic Meeting

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in a telephonic conversation with his Israeli counterpart Israel Katz on Monday to discuss the ongoing situation in West Asia. The leaders delved into India’s perspectives, assessments, and interests regarding the matter, emphasizing the need for continued communication.

Jaishankar shared details of the discussion on social media platform X, stating, “Good to talk to Israeli FM @Israel_katz. Discussed the ongoing situation in West Asia. Spoke about India’s views, assessments, and interests in that regard. Agreed to stay in touch.”

While the conflict in Gaza persists following Israel’s counter-offensive to the Hamas attack on October 7, India maintains its support for a ‘two-state solution’ to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the terror attack on Israel by Hamas in October, aligning with global leaders.

India’s commitment to humanitarian aid for Gaza was underscored as the country released the second tranche of USD 2.5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in December, fulfilling its annual contribution of USD 5 million for 2023-24.

Addressing the situation in Gaza during the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Kampala on January 19, Jaishankar stressed the urgency of a sustainable solution to the humanitarian crisis. He affirmed that “terrorism and hostage-taking are unacceptable” while urging all states involved to respect international humanitarian law.

Expressing concern about the Gaza conflict, Jaishankar emphasized the imperative that the conflict does not escalate within or beyond the region. He reiterated India’s longstanding commitment to a two-state solution, aiming for the Palestinian people to live within secure borders. The External Affairs Minister emphasized collective efforts toward making this goal achievable.