India Condemns Terrorism and Hostage Taking Amidst Escalating Middle East Conflict

Rome, Italy (PTI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has strongly condemned terrorism and hostage-taking by Hamas during its conflict with Israel, while reiterating India's call for restraint and dialogue.

Addressing the 10th MED Mediterranean Dialogue in Rome on Monday, Jaishankar said that India unequivocally condemns the "heinous" act of terrorism and hostage-taking. He noted that large-scale civilian casualties in military operations are unacceptable and must be avoided at all costs.

Jaishankar also reiterated India's support for a two-state solution to the conflict in the Middle East, expressing concern over the widening of the conflict. His comments come amidst the ongoing Israel-Lebanon conflict, which has resulted in significant casualties and displacement.

India has been engaging with Israel and Iran at the highest levels to promote restraint and enhance communication, Jaishankar said, adding that Indian naval ships have been deployed in the Gulf of Aden and Northern Arabian Sea since last year to protect commercial shipping.

Jaishankar also discussed the crisis in Ukraine, calling for an urgent return to dialogue and diplomacy. He dismissed the notion of a battlefield solution, saying that no solution can emerge from the battlefield and that the conflict has serious destabilizing consequences, including for the Mediterranean region.

The External Affairs Minister's comments were part of his three-day diplomatic mission to Italy, which includes attending the Outreach Session of the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Fiuggi.