Amid rising tensions in West Asia, the Indian Embassy in Israel celebrated Israel’s independence. 78th Independence Day In fact, the envoy sought a quick and peaceful resolution of the issue Conflict in Gaza,
Ambassador Sanjeev Singla hoisted the national flag at his residence in the presence of embassy staff. Members of the Indian community participated in the event through the mission’s social media links.
Singla said India has “strongly and unequivocally” condemned the October 7 attack by Hamas against Israel, but at the same time “we have continued to reiterate our concern over the loss of civilian lives and emphasise the need for continued humanitarian assistance to the affected population of Gaza.”
“We also stressed the need for an early and peaceful resolution of the conflict in Gaza, including the release of all hostages, through dialogue and diplomacy,” the Indian Ambassador stressed.
He advised the Indian community to remain vigilant, follow the instructions of Home Command, restrict unnecessary movement and monitor the Mission’s social media handles for advice.
Speaking on bilateral ties, Singla said the mission continued the “integration approach” adopted by the two countries over the last decade in pursuit of common good at the bilateral, regional and global levels, and retained the same “thrust” last year as well.
He stressed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi remained in regular touch with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu throughout the year.
He said Prime Minister Modi met Israeli President Isaac Herzog on the sidelines of COP 28, Israeli Transport Minister Miri Regev visited India in February and India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval visited Israel in March, describing them as signs of continued cooperation at the bilateral level.
Describing the Indian diaspora and the Indian Jewish community in Israel as a “powerful link” between the two countries, the Indian envoy said “we are focusing on enhancing people-to-people ties”.
Singla expressed deep grief over the demise of two persons, Professor Lael Anson Best and Sheikh Mohammad Munir Ansari, who were awarded the Diaspora Day Honour in Israel last year.
He also praised the Indian Cultural Centre for furthering “our outreach to Israel” by organizing cultural events regularly.