India issued new security advisories for its citizens in Israel as violence escalated in Gaza, even as the United States announced progress toward the second phase of a ceasefire framework aimed at ending the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
The Embassy of India in Israel has urged all Indian nationals in the country to remain vigilant and strictly follow the security guidelines issued by the Israeli authorities and the Home Front Command. Citizens were also advised to avoid all non-essential travel to Israel amid what the advisory described as the “prevailing situation” in the region.
In case of emergency, Indian nationals have been asked to contact the embassy’s 24-hour helpline at +972-54-7520711 or +972-54-3278392 or via email at cons1.telaviv@mea.gov.in
Attacks in Gaza continue despite pressure from second phase of ceasefire
The recommendation came as Israeli military operations in Gaza intensified. On January 16, Israeli strikes killed at least 10 Palestinians, according to local reports, underscoring continued instability despite diplomatic moves toward the next phase of a ceasefire agreement.
Al Jazeera’s Ibrahim al-Khalili, reporting from Gaza City, said “a senior figure in the Qassam Brigades” had been killed, adding that the strike signaled Israel’s intention to shape the second phase of the ceasefire “on its terms”.
The Israeli military later confirmed that one of the dead was Muhammad al-Hawli, whom it identified as the commander of the Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas.
Airstrikes hit central Gaza, residents panic
Israel has stepped up airstrikes across the enclave, with the latest attacks focused on the central city of Deir el-Balah. According to local sources, at least six Palestinians were killed and many others injured in the attacks.
The renewed attacks have sparked panic among residents, many of whom hoped the second phase of the ceasefire would bring increased humanitarian aid and the reopening of border crossings. Instead, residents reported drones hovering at low altitude, spreading fear among already traumatized communities.
The humanitarian situation remains bleak for hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians, with the latest violence casting doubt on any immediate easing of conditions on the ground.
What we know about the second phase of the ceasefire plan
On Wednesday, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said the second phase of President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan had begun, moving “from a ceasefire to demilitarization, technocratic rule and reconstruction”.
Hamas leaders and representatives of other Palestinian factions are currently in Cairo for talks aimed at the second phase. Witkoff said the plan calls for disarming “unauthorized personnel” and deploying an international stabilization force to secure Gaza and train Palestinian police.
A new technocratic body, the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, was established to manage day-to-day management. Ali Shaath, a former representative of the Palestinian Authority, has been appointed to head the committee, which is meeting in Egypt ahead of its proposed entry into Gaza.
The first phase of the framework ordered a cessation of fighting, a freeze on the front lines, and an exchange of Israeli and Palestinian prisoners.
However, great uncertainty remains regarding the second phase, including funding for the reconstruction of Gaza, the extent and timing of the Israeli military withdrawal, and the extent of humanitarian access.
Regional uncertainty prompts travel warnings
Amid ongoing military action and unresolved diplomatic issues, Indian authorities have warned citizens against unnecessary travel to Israel, signaling concern that the security situation could deteriorate further even as negotiations continue.
The recommendation reflects growing concern among governments around the world about the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the risks posed by renewed escalation on the ground.
