In a significant diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions with Israeli President Isaac Herzog on the sidelines of the COP28 World Climate Action Summit in the UAE. The meeting focused on addressing the Israel's war on Gaza.
During the encounter, Prime Minister Modi expressed his condolences for the lives lost in the October 7 terror attacks and welcomed the recent release of hostages. External Affairs Ministry spokesman Arindam Bagchi provided insights into the discussions, underscoring the need for a sustained and secure delivery of humanitarian aid to the affected population.
Modi reiterated India's unwavering support for a two-state solution, emphasizing the importance of an early and durable resolution to the Israel's war on Gaza through dialogue and diplomacy.
President Herzog, reflecting on his participation in the COP28 conference, shared his interactions with leaders worldwide. He highlighted concerns about Hamas's blatant violations of ceasefire agreements and repeatedly called for prioritizing the release of hostages on the international agenda. Herzog emphasized the imperative of respecting Israel's right to defend itself.
Meanwhile, at the BRICS Meeting on Israel's war on Gaza, held by BRICS Chair South Africa, Indian Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar strongly condemned the October 7 Hamas attack and reiterated India's unwavering support for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.
Jaishankar pressed for urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza, highlighting the dire situation causing immense suffering to civilians, including the elderly and children. The minister called for restraint and immediate humanitarian support in the region.
The BRICS summit, attended by leaders such as Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, underscored the collective efforts toward de-escalation and the imperative need for the effective and safe delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Jaishankar condemned hostage-taking, emphasizing the universal obligation to observe international humanitarian law. He reiterated India's support for Palestinians, emphasizing the long-standing commitment to a two-state solution for peaceful co-existence.
