PM dials up Israeli counterpart Netanyahu; raises West Asia crisis

New Delhi, Aug 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi telephoned with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today.

PM Netanyahu extended his warm wishes to India on its 78th Independence Day. The leaders’ discussion primarily focused on the escalating situation in West Asia, a region currently embroiled in intense conflict.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the urgent need for de-escalation in the region, reiterating India’s firm stance on the immediate release of all hostages. He emphasised the importance of continued humanitarian assistance for those affected by the conflict and called for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.

In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi expressed his appreciation for Netanyahu’s call, highlighting their discussion on the current situation in West Asia. “Emphasized the need to de-escalate the situation. Reiterated our call for immediate release of all hostages, ceasefire, and need for continued humanitarian assistance,” Modi stated.

In addition to the West Asia crisis, the two leaders also reviewed various aspects of the India-Israel Strategic Partnership, exploring avenues to further strengthen bilateral cooperation. They agreed to remain in close contact as the situation in the region continues to unfold.

Meanwhile, US-led efforts to broker a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip have resumed in Qatar, marking a crucial moment as the conflict between Israel and Hamas intensifies.

According to reports from international media, the death toll among Palestinians has now exceeded 40,000, as reported by the Gaza health ministry. This staggering figure, which accounts for approximately 1.7% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million, highlights the devastating human toll of the ongoing war.

Since the October 7 attack led by Hamas on Israel, resulting in around 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages being taken, Israel has launched continuous military actions in Gaza. Satellite imagery reveals that nearly 60% of Gaza’s infrastructure has been either damaged or destroyed, with the southern region of Rafah suffering the most extensive devastation.

The United States has described the initial stages of the new round of talks in Doha as “promising,” as discussions aim to secure a ceasefire and a hostage release agreement.

However, the path to a breakthrough remains uncertain, with expectations tempered by the complex dynamics at play. An agreement is seen as crucial to preventing the 10-month conflict from escalating into a broader regional war involving Iran.

As the situation in West Asia remains highly volatile, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that will bring an end to the suffering and pave the way for lasting peace in the region.