New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that India and Israel share a firm policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism, underlining the strong convergence between the two countries on security and counterterrorism. The remarks were made during his two day visit to Israel while addressing the media alongside Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Moshe Sa’ar.
Jaishankar strongly condemned the recent terror attack during Hanukkah celebrations at Bondi Beach in Sydney, expressing deep condolences for the loss of lives. He said the attack was condemned in the strongest terms and reiterated India’s solidarity with Israel in the fight against terrorism. He also acknowledged Israel’s consistent support to India in combating terrorism in all its forms.
The Sydney attack, carried out during a public Hanukkah event, resulted in multiple deaths and injuries, sending shockwaves across the international community. Jaishankar said such acts reinforce the shared resolve of India and Israel to take a firm stand against extremist violence.
Highlighting the broader relationship, the minister said India and Israel have built a strong strategic partnership over the past decade. He noted that cooperation today spans government to government engagement, business collaboration, and people to people exchanges. According to him, the two nations are highly complementary partners with immense potential across multiple sectors.
Jaishankar said discussions during the visit focused on further advancing the strategic partnership and expanding cooperation in areas such as defence, technology, trade, innovation, and regional security. He also reiterated India’s support for the Gaza peace plan and expressed hope that ongoing efforts would lead to a lasting and durable peace in the region.
The visit comes amid preparations for a proposed visit to India by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Jaishankar is also scheduled to meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Netanyahu to discuss bilateral and regional developments.
India and Israel have witnessed intensified high level exchanges in recent months, including visits by several Israeli ministers to India. The two sides have signed key agreements covering investment, defence cooperation, and the framework for a proposed free trade agreement. Cooperation has also expanded in cultural and academic fields, with recent steps taken to strengthen educational and people centric ties.
Jaishankar arrived in Israel from Abu Dhabi after participating in major bilateral and regional engagements, reflecting India’s active diplomatic outreach in West Asia.
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