Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and shared deep concern at the terrorism, violence and deteriorating security situation in the region.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Modi reiterated India's long-standing principled position on the Israel-Palestine issue.
Spoke to the President of the Palestinian Authority H.E. Mahmoud Abbas. Conveyed my condolences at the loss of civilian lives at the Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza. We will continue to send humanitarian assistance for the Palestinian people. Shared our deep concern at the terrorism,…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 19, 2023
Meanwhile, the union ministry of external affairs said that the evacuation of Indians from the Gaza Strip would be difficult. However, MEA is committed to bringing the four Indians, who were stranded in the war-torn region at the first opportunity.
MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said there are 12-13 Indian nationals in the West Bank region.
While addressing the press conference, Bagchi said India is concerned over civilian casualties and the humanitarian situation amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. MEA urged the international community to stand united in fighting against terrorism.
Bagchi also said India is supporting Palestine and its refugees by providing a significant contribution to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). "A total of $29.53 million has been contributed between 2002-2023...We pledged an annual contribution of $5 million for the next two years," he said.
Under Operation Ajay, India brought back at least 1,200 people, inlcuding 18 Nepalis from the war-torn nation. Bagchi added that the situation is being assessed and as per the requirements further flights will be planned.
"I thankfully have not received any report of any casualty...one Indian national had been injured and is receiving medical care," he said.
Bagchi said they haven't issued any advisory so far for Lebanon. "We are monitoring the situation and will issue it accordingly if the need arises," he added.
With lack of water, and shortage of basic supplies, Gazans are facing a severe public health crisis. According to Gaza Health Ministry, over 3,700 people died so far since the Hamas attack on October 7.
