The Gaza War: India supports restraint, diplomacy, and dialogue, says PM Modi
Virendra Pandit
New Delhi: Asserting that India “strongly condemns” the death of civilians in the six-week-old ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called for restraint by both sides.
Hosting a virtual gathering of foreign leaders at the Second Voice of Global South Summit (VOGSS), he said India supports dialogue and diplomacy for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
At least 11,500 Palestinians have been killed, including around 7,900 women and children, and over 29,800 others injured, according to the latest figures released by Gaza’s health ministry which is run by Hamas.
Israel has reported 1,200 civilian deaths, including that of 371 soldiers, in the October 7 attack by Hamas, that triggered the conflict.
“The developments in West Asia are creating new challenges. India has condemned the dastardly terror attack on Israel on October 7. We urged for a restrained response along with dialogue and diplomacy. We strongly condemn the death of civilians in the Israel-Hamas conflict,” said PM Modi.
His comments are significant as most countries of the Global South have voiced support for the Palestinian cause and denounced Israel for attacking Gaza.
PM Modi said the G-20 motto of “One Earth, One Family, One Future” should be sought through the 5Cs: Consultation, cooperation, communication, creativity, and capacity building.
Among those present at the virtual event were Indonesian President Joko Widodo, Philippines President Bongbong Marcos, and leaders of Papua New Guinea, Kyrgyzstan, Nauru, Fiji, Mauritius, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Kenya, and Madagascar.
From India’s immediate neighborhood, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Bhutan’s monarch Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck were also present.
