Leaders also share concerns regarding safety of maritime traffic in Red Sea
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s stand in support of early restoration of peace in the Israel-Gaza region while speaking with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (December 19, 2023).
 
According to information provided by the Indian Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), PM Netanyahu briefed Prime Minister Modi on the recent developments in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
 
Prime Minister Modi reiterated the need for continued humanitarian aid for the affected population and emphasized an early and peaceful resolution of the conflict, including the release of all hostages, through dialogue and diplomacy, the PMO said.
 
During the telephone call made by Prime Minister Netanyahu, the two leaders also shared concerns regarding the safety of maritime traffic in the Red Sea in the wake of attacks by Houthi rebel groups.
 
“Had a productive exchange of views with PM @netanyahu on the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, including shared concerns on the safety of maritime traffic. Highlighted India’s consistent stand in favour of early restoration of peace & stability in the region with continued humanitarian assistance for the affected,” Prime Minister Modi said in a post on social media platform X.
 
According to a statement issued by the Israeli Prime Minister's Office, the two leaders discussed the importance of securing freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb, which is threatened by the aggression of the Houthis, instigated by Iran, and the global interest in preventing attacks on the global economy and trade, as well as the Indian and Israeli economies.
 
Prime Minister Modi noted that freedom of navigation is an essential global necessity that must be ensured, the statement added.
 
Recent weeks have seen numerous vessels being attacked by the Houthis. According to news reports, the Iran-backed rebels say that they are targeting ships in the Red Sea with links to Israel" in protest against its military offensive in Gaza. This has raised concerns about the impact on the passage of oil, grain and other goods on this important global trade route.
 
According to the Israeli PMO, the leaders also discussed advancing the arrival of foreign workers from India to the State of Israel.