Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and stressed the need for de-escalation in Gaza. Modi also reiterated India’s call for a ceasefire, release of hostages and the need for continued humanitarian aid.
In a post on X, Modi said Netanyahu had called him to convey his “warm wishes on India’s 78th Independence Day”, which was celebrated Thursday. “We discussed the current situation in West Asia. Emphasised on the need to de-escalate the situation. Reiterated our call for immediate release of all hostages, ceasefire and need for continued humanitarian assistance,” the PM wrote.
Modi also called for an early and peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. Besides, the two leaders also discussed various aspects of the bilateral cooperation and ways to further strengthen the India-Israel strategic partnership, A PMO statement said.
In December 2023, days after India voted in favour of a UN resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, PM Modi had spoken to Netanyahu and highlighted New Delhi’s stand in favour of early restoration of peace in the region.
Modi and Netanyahu last spoke on June 5, a day after the Lok Sabha election results were announced, with the Israeli PM congratulating Modi on his election victory.