The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Friday that National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval’s recent visit to Israel, coinciding with the onset of Ramadan, marked a continuation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the region. The MEA highlighted NSA Doval’s discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding humanitarian assistance to Gaza and efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated during a weekly briefing, “The Prime Minister himself is interested and keen to promote peace and stability in the region. He has been in touch with several Arab leaders in this connection. NSA’s visit to Israel, which took place on the onset of Ramadan, carried forward these efforts.”
During the meeting with Israeli leaders, NSA Doval emphasized the importance of delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza and discussed steps to facilitate the release of hostages held by Hamas. This visit builds upon NSA Doval’s earlier meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu, where similar topics were discussed.
In a statement issued by the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, it was confirmed that Prime Minister Netanyahu updated NSA Doval on recent developments in Gaza, including the ongoing conflict with Hamas and efforts to release hostages. The meeting also involved discussions with key officials from both sides.
Hamas had conducted a major terror attack in Israel last October, resulting in casualties and hostages. India has maintained a strong stance against terrorism while also advocating for humanitarian assistance to civilians affected by the conflict. PM Modi was among the first global leaders to condemn the terror attack by Hamas.
India’s commitment to the ‘two-state solution’ for the Israel-Palestine conflict has been reiterated, alongside ongoing humanitarian aid efforts. India recently fulfilled its annual contribution of USD 5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) as part of its commitment to supporting the people of Gaza.
