Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reiterated India’s “deepest condolences” to the people of Israel for lives lost in the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack carried out by Hamas, stating that “India stands with Israel firmly, with full conviction in this moment and beyond.” His remarks, delivered during a recent address to the Knesset, come as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues to have far-reaching humanitarian and geopolitical consequences.
Condemning the attack as “barbaric” and reaffirming India’s zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, Modi also called for sustained international efforts towards peace and stability in West Asia. Israeli leaders welcomed India’s solidarity, while India maintained its broader position advocating dialogue, restraint, and a just, lasting solution to the conflict.
Condolences, Condemnation And Strategic Solidarity
In his address, Prime Minister Modi conveyed the condolences of 1.4 billion Indians to families affected by the October 7 attack, which Israeli authorities have said resulted in over a thousand deaths and the taking of hostages. “We feel your pain, we share your grief,” he said, describing the assault as a terrorist act that shattered countless families. Drawing parallels with India’s own experiences of terror attacks, including the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, he underlined that “no cause can justify the murder of innocent civilians.”
Officials from India’s Ministry of External Affairs echoed the Prime Minister’s position, reiterating that terrorism in any form is unacceptable and must be condemned unequivocally. The Ministry stated that India’s support for Israel at this moment is rooted in its principled stand against terrorism, rather than in hostility towards any people. At the same time, Indian officials emphasised the importance of safeguarding civilian lives and ensuring that humanitarian assistance reaches those affected by the ongoing hostilities.
Israeli leaders welcomed the Prime Minister’s remarks, describing India as a trusted partner and friend. The speech at the Knesset marked a significant diplomatic moment, reinforcing the strategic partnership between India and Israel in defence, agriculture, water technology and innovation. Observers note that relations between the two nations have strengthened steadily in recent years, marked by high-level visits and expanding cooperation across sectors.
Conflict Escalation And India’s Diplomatic Balancing Act
The October 7 attack marked a dramatic escalation in the decades-long Israel–Palestine conflict, triggering large-scale military operations by Israel in Gaza. The violence has led to heavy casualties and widespread displacement, raising urgent humanitarian concerns. International organisations and global leaders have called for restraint, the protection of civilians, and renewed diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation.
India’s position reflects a careful diplomatic balance. While expressing firm solidarity with Israel in the aftermath of the attack, New Delhi has also reiterated its long-standing support for a two-state solution that envisions peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine. India maintains diplomatic relations with both sides and has historically advocated dialogue as the only sustainable path to peace.
In his recent remarks, Prime Minister Modi underscored the need for global unity against terrorism, stating that there should be “no double standards” in confronting extremist violence. However, he also acknowledged the wider regional instability and the importance of collective international efforts to restore peace. Analysts suggest that India’s approach seeks to uphold its security partnerships while preserving its credibility as a voice for dialogue and stability in West Asia.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
At moments of immense human tragedy, words of solidarity carry deep emotional weight. The pain of families who lose loved ones to violence transcends borders, faiths and nationalities. Condemning acts of terror is not just a political stance; it is a moral imperative. Yet, true commitment to peace requires more than condemnation. It demands empathy for all innocent lives affected, a refusal to dehumanise communities, and a consistent call for dialogue over destruction.
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