India's Concerns on the Israel-Iran Conflict and the Importance of De-escalation
India has expressed its deep concern over the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, particularly in light of the recent Hamas attack on Israel. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, speaking at the Carnegie Endowment in the US, condemned the attack as a "terrorist act."
While acknowledging Israel's right to respond, Jaishankar emphasized the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law and minimizing civilian casualties. He expressed particular concern about the potential for the conflict to widen, encompassing Lebanon, the Houthis, and the Red Sea, as well as any potential escalation between Iran and Israel.
In a separate development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, underlining the critical need to prevent further escalation in the region. Modi reiterated India's unwavering stance against terrorism and its commitment to supporting the restoration of peace and stability.