Jaishankar's Hanukkah Message to Israel Amid Regional Tensions

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar sent warm Hanukkah wishes to Israel and its Foreign Minister. This comes right after Prime Minister Modi spoke with Israeli PM Netanyahu about regional issues. Their conversation focused on strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. Both leaders strongly condemned terrorism and discussed efforts for lasting peace.

Key Points: Jaishankar Wishes Israel on Hanukkah After Modi-Netanyahu Call

  • EAM Jaishankar extends warm Hanukkah greetings to Israel and FM Gideon Sa'ar on social media
  • The wishes follow a recent phone call between PM Modi and Israeli PM Netanyahu
  • Both leaders discussed strengthening strategic ties and a zero-tolerance stance on terrorism
  • PM Modi reaffirmed India's support for a just and durable peace in the West Asia region
2 min read

'May festival of lights bring peace, hope': EAM Jaishankar wishes people of Israel on Hanukkah

EAM Jaishankar extends Hanukkah wishes to Israel, following a strategic call between PM Modi and Netanyahu discussing peace and counter-terrorism.

"May the Festival of Lights bring peace, hope, and joy to all. - EAM S. Jaishankar"

Abu Dhabi, Dec 14

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Sunday extended warm wishes to his Israeli counterpart Gideon Sa'ar and the people of Israel on Hanukkah.

While extending wishes to people of Israel on X, EAM Jaishankar wrote, "Warmest wishes to FM Gideon Sa'ar, friends in Israel and all those celebrating Hanukkah around the world. May the Festival of Lights bring peace, hope, and joy to all. Chag Sameach!"

In response to his wishes, Gideon Sa'ar, in a post on X, wrote, "Thank you, dear friend!"

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a telephone call from his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, and the two leaders exchanged views on the situation in West Asia.

During the talks, both leaders discussed ways to strengthen the India-Israel Strategic Partnership and reiterated their zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism.

According to a press note issued by the Prime Minister’s office, “PM Modi reaffirms India’s support for efforts towards a just and durable peace in the region.”

Notably, both leaders expressed satisfaction at the continued momentum in India-Israel Strategic Partnership and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening these ties for mutual benefit.

“The two leaders strongly condemned terrorism and reiterated their zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” the PMO said.

“They also exchanged views on the situation in West Asia. PM Modi reaffirmed India’s support for efforts towards a just and durable peace in the region, including early implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan,” it added.

Following their talks, PM Modi, in a statement shared on X, wrote, "Spoke with my friend Prime Minister Netanyahu. We reviewed progress in the India-Israel Strategic Partnership and agreed to further strengthen our cooperation. Also reaffirmed our shared commitment to zero tolerance for terrorism. India supports all efforts aimed at achieving a just and durable peace in the region."

The two leaders agreed to remain in touch.

India and Israel are strategic partners. The bilateral political ties between the two nations are warm and forward-looking, according to the Indian Embassy in Israel statement. India announced its recognition of Israel on September 17, 1950. Soon after, the Jewish Agency established an immigration office in Bombay (Mumbai), which was later converted into a Trade Office and, subsequently, a Consulate. Regular embassies opened in 1992 when full diplomatic relations were established between the two countries.

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- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
It's good to see our leaders maintaining strong ties. The strategic partnership with Israel is important for technology and defence. But I hope our government's call for a "just and durable peace" also means actively pushing for humanitarian relief in Gaza. The focus must be on saving innocent lives.
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Rohit P
Chag Sameach to all celebrating! 🕎 The Festival of Lights is about hope. While we strengthen ties with Israel, we must not forget our historical support for the Palestinian cause. India's foreign policy is walking a tightrope, but so far, it seems balanced.
S
Sarah B
As someone living in India, I appreciate this diplomatic courtesy. The zero-tolerance stance on terrorism is something all nations should unite on. However, peace cannot be one-sided. Hope the talks lead to tangible de-escalation.
V
Vikram M
Strong ties with Israel benefit our agriculture and security. The wishes are fine, but the real news is the strategic talks. We need their tech and they need our market. It's a pragmatic relationship. Jai Hind!
K
Kavya N
"May the Festival of Lights bring peace" – such a beautiful and universal wish. In these dark times, we need more messages of light and hope from world leaders. Respect for our EAM for keeping diplomacy humane.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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