Prime Minister's office directly overseeing situation of Indians in Israel: Foreign Affairs Minister, Meenakshi Lekhi
Israel Crisis: In the wake of the unprecedented attack by Palestine's Hamas militants that led to Israel declaring a state of war, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Meenakshi Lekhi, has provided reassurance regarding the safety and well-being of Indians in Israel. She emphasised that the Indian government, with direct oversight from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office, is actively supervising the situation and striving to ensure the safe return of stranded Indian students from Israel.
#WATCH | On Hamas terrorists' attack on Israel, MoS MEA Meenakashi Lekhi says, "I received many messages last night and through the night we were working but I'm also aware that Prime Minister's office is directly supervising the situation and we are on the job. Even in the past,… pic.twitter.com/7gwyiE2X76
— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2023
Minister Lekhi stated, "The Indian government is working tirelessly to repatriate Indian students who are stuck in Israel. The Prime Minister and his office are closely monitoring the situation, and extensive efforts are underway to facilitate the return of our students."
She further pointed out India's successful track record of evacuating its citizens during challenging times, including during the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the COVID-19 pandemic. Operations like "Operation Ganga" and "Vande Bharat" have been instrumental in bringing back Indian nationals from abroad.
Minister Lekhi extended condolences to the victims of the rocket strikes launched by Hamas on Israel. She emphasized that Prime Minister Modi has already conveyed his condolences and expressed India's solidarity with Israel during this challenging period.
The situation in Israel escalated dramatically when Hamas militants breached the Gaza Strip blockade, launching attacks in Israeli towns and resulting in casualties and abductions during a significant Jewish holiday. In response, Israel carried out retaliatory airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, leading to further casualties.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to target Hamas hideouts in Gaza, intensifying the conflict in the region. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep shock at the terrorist attacks in Israel, extending thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families while reaffirming India's solidarity with Israel during this difficult time.
- With inputs from agencies
