Terrorism Has No Place In Our World: PM Modi Says After Speaking To Israel’s Netanyahu
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reiterated India’s stance against terrorism, stating it “has no place in our world”. PM Modi made the remarks during a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, amid escalating violence in the West Asia. PM Modi expressed concern about the situation, emphasising the need to prevent further regional instability and called for the release of hostages held by militant groups.
The Prime Minister tweeted, “Spoke to Prime Minister Netanyahu about recent developments in West Asia. Terrorism has no place in our world. It is crucial to prevent regional escalation and ensure the safe release of all hostages. India is committed to supporting efforts for an early restoration of peace and stability.”
Meanwhile, the United States has urged for de-escalation in the region. The US Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, reiterated the country’s commitment to peace, stating that the Biden administration does not want to see the violence spread. However, the US has faced criticism for continuing to approve billions in military aid to Israel, despite calls for restraint.
In the neighbouring country of Lebanon, the situation remains dire. Israeli airstrikes have led to the deaths of 136 people within the last 24 hours, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. One individual was reportedly killed by an Israeli drone in the southern village of Khiam. The country’s health system, already strained by the ongoing conflict, is being pushed to its limits, with the World Health Organization warning of potential health crises among displaced populations.
As the conflict escalates, Netanyahu addressed Iran directly, accusing the country of fuelling unrest in the region. In a video statement posted on social media, Netanyahu claimed that Iran’s leaders were driving the Middle East towards “darkness and war”. He also expressed hope for peace between Israel and Iran once the Iranian regime is removed, envisioning mutual economic benefits and technological collaboration.
In contrast, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called for Muslims worldwide to unite in support of Lebanon’s Hezbollah, following reports that the militant group’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, was killed in an Israeli airstrike. Khamenei condemned Israel’s actions, labelling them as “criminal” and “short-sighted”.
The conflict has drawn further international concern, with US President Joe Biden calling for a ceasefire. When questioned about Israel’s reported plans to invade Lebanon, Biden responded, “I’m comfortable with them stopping,” but did not offer details on how the US might influence a de-escalation.
Hezbollah fighters, in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes, launched rockets targeting northern Israel, including the towns of Gesher Haziv and Safed. Israel has responded with increased air raids across Gaza, Lebanon, and even Yemen, intensifying the already volatile situation.
Amid these tensions, several airlines, including Air France, Flydubai, and Emirates, have suspended flights to Tel Aviv and Beirut, citing concerns over regional security.
The US continues to engage with Israel on finding the best way forward, as Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh revealed plans to deploy additional troops to support Israel if necessary.
