The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reiterated India's enduring commitment to supporting the establishment of a "sovereign, independent, and viable" state of Palestine. During a press briefing, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi emphasized India's consistent stance on the issue.
"Our policy has been longstanding and consistent. India has always advocated the resumption of direct negotiations to establish a sovereign, independent, and viable state of Palestine, coexisting with secure and recognized borders alongside Israel. I believe this position remains unchanged," Bagchi stated.
This statement marks India's first official comment on the Palestine issue since the Palestinian group Hamas initiated rocket attacks on Israel on October 7.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also addressed the Israel-Hamas conflict, condemning Hamas' "terrorist attack" on Israel in two separate statements. He expressed support for Israel during these challenging times, having received a briefing from Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.
Regarding the humanitarian situation in Israel and Gaza, Bagchi emphasized the universal obligation to adhere to humanitarian law. He further noted that there is a collective responsibility to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
Bagchi provided information about the first flight returning Indian citizens from Israel under 'Operation Ajay,' stating that it would land in India on the same day as the press conference. He urged all Indian citizens in Israel to contact the embassy to have their names added to the list for chartered flights arranged for their safe return.
In response to a question about whether India would be providing weaponry to Israel, Bagchi clarified that the main focus at the moment is to ensure the safe return of Indians from Israel.
Bagchi mentioned that there are approximately 18,000 Indians in Israel, with one Indian citizen injured. He stated, "We are in touch with them. They are in the hospital, getting better. There have been no casualties so far."
He also noted that there are four Indians in Gaza and twelve in the West Bank.
The flight from Israel to India is expected to bring back 230 Indian residents, as part of the Indian government's efforts to rescue those stranded in Israel amid the ongoing conflict with Hamas terrorists. This initiative is part of 'Operation Ajay,' which was announced by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday.
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