On September 30, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a significant conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing the need to avoid further escalation of conflict in the West Asian region. This dialogue followed Israel’s recent military action, which resulted in the death of Hezbollah leader Hasan Nasrallah in Beirut.
During the call, PM Modi expressed India’s steadfast support for Israel’s ongoing battle against terrorism, stating, “Terrorism has no place in our world. It is crucial to prevent regional escalation and ensure the safe release of all hostages.” He reaffirmed India’s commitment to facilitating a prompt restoration of peace and stability in the area.
The phone call comes just days after Israeli air force jets targeted Nasrallah, employing ground-penetrating munitions in a dramatic escalation of the conflict. As the one-year mark approaches since Hamas’s assault on Israeli targets on October 7, 2023, which led to the abduction of numerous Israelis, concerns are mounting over the ongoing hostilities. Currently, around 100 hostages remain in the custody of Hamas.
Throughout the year-long conflict, India has maintained its support for a two-state solution as a means to achieve lasting peace between Israel and Palestine. Notably, despite multiple requests from Israel, India has refrained from designating Hamas as a terrorist organization.
Earlier, on September 23, PM Modi met with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas during the UN General Assembly in New York, where he voiced “deep concern” and extended “unwavering support” for the Palestinian people. In light of the increasing violence, India has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid Lebanon, where approximately 3,000 Indian nationals currently reside.