“Terrorism has no place in our world, and India stands firmly against any form of extremism.” – Prime Minister Modi
In the wake of the continuing Israel-Hamas conflict, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had an all-important discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasising India’s steadfast position toward peace and the remit of terrorism. The dialogue, according to sources, reaffirms India’s support for a stable Middle East while also keeping in mind the safety of innocent civilians entrapped in the conflict.
During the call, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s long-held stance for the immediate establishment of peace and stability in the Middle East. Terrorism is unwelcome in the world, and India firmly opposes every form of extremism, said Modi. He advocated for essential humanitarian assistance and civilian care in light of rising regional tensions.
The conversation has arisen at a critical juncture when Israel is intensifying its military response following Hamas’s October attacks. Thus far, the violence has killed thousands, creating widespread international calls for a ceasefire. Modi’s outreach to Netanyahu is part of India’s broader network of diplomatic efforts advocating for de-escalation and humanitarian assistance.
Both leaders discussed the safety of sea traffic, knowing that this stretches maritime boundaries. PM Modi expressed similar concerns over potential threats to international passage routes, which are crucial to global trade and economic stability. “We must ensure the security of our maritime routes, which are the lifeblood of our global economy,” Modi said during the discussion.
Global Reactions and Netanyahu’s Response
Despite growing international pressure, including from the United States, Israel has shown little willingness to declare a ceasefire. Netanyahu’s insistence on erasing Hamas from Gaza is premised on the justification of the attacks perpetrated on Israeli civilians by the militant group. Modi’s statement echoes the global refrain for peace yet conveniently avoids reference to an immediate ceasefire, showing the balance in India’s stance on this issue.
Modi also expressed vital concern for civilians in Gaza, as conditions there devolved with Israel’s airstrikes intensifying human tragedy. The death toll in Gaza just keeps rising, a count that is said by some to be nearing 20,000, with many reported to be civilians. While Israel claims that Hamas uses civilians as human shields, this growing number of military casualties has begun to spur indignation across the world.
India Promoting Peace
India has a long-established tradition of neutrality on the issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, proposing a peaceful resolution based on a two-state solution. The phone call between Modi and Netanyahu would yet again confirm India’s dedication to being an active player in international diplomacy to bring this violence to a halt. That Modi has emphasized the humanitarian side of this issue indicates India’s willingness to face the challenge of providing assistance to those affected while also calling for diplomatic solutions.
In an environment where the conflict refuses to abate, India’s proactive engagement with both Israeli and Palestinian leadership will indeed represent its authentic contribution to a peaceful resolution.
