Foreign ministers of India and Israel S Jaishankar and Gideon Sa’ar on Tuesday held high-level discussions and explored ways to implement a global “zero tolerance” approach to terrorism. The talks also aimed to significantly strengthen cooperation across key sectors, including trade, infrastructure and regional connectivity.
Security and the fight against terrorism
Security cooperation was on the agenda. In his opening remarks, Jaishankar noted that both the nations are currently facing the challenge of terrorism.
“We have stood by each other in testing times. And we have developed a relationship with a high degree of trust and reliability. Our two nations face the special challenge of terrorism,” Jaishankar said.
“It is imperative that we work to ensure a global approach of zero tolerance to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” he added.
For his part, Sa’ar, who is on a three-day trip to India, commented on the regional conflict, saying Israel was facing the “radical terrorist states” of Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen. He also took the opportunity to recall Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s clear support for Israel.
“We remember that he was the first world leader to call Prime Minister Netanyahu after the Hamas massacre on October 7, and we will not forget that,” the Israeli foreign minister said.
“The eradication of the terrorist state of Hamas is at the heart of President (Donald) Trump’s plan. Hamas must be disarmed, Gaza must be demilitarized. We will not compromise on that,” Sa’ar said.
Commerce and connectivity
The two ministers discussed ways to expand bilateral trade. Crucially, the implementation of the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) was also discussed in connection with the strengthening of regional connectivity. The meeting comes as both New Delhi and Jerusalem are considering an official visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to India in the next few months.
Regional peace and Gaza
Referring to the ongoing situation, Jaishankar said India was following developments regarding the US-brokered Gaza peace plan with “very close attention”.
“We welcome the return of the hostages and the remains of those who unfortunately lost their lives. India supports the Gaza peace plan and hopes it will pave the way for a permanent and lasting solution,” Jaishankar said.
This 20-point peace plan facilitated a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip. As part of its initial phase, Hamas released all remaining hostages, while Israel released a significant number of Palestinian prisoners and detainees. New Delhi expressed hope that the plan would eventually lead to lasting peace in the entire region.
