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At least 15 people were killed, and 40 were injured in an attack by two gunmen on a gathering celebrating Jewish festival Hanukkah on Sunday.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar meets Israel Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, in Jerusalem on Tuesday. (@DrSJaishankar X/ANI Photo)
During a meeting with his Israeli counterpart Gideon Sa’ar in Jerusalem on Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar condemned Sunday’s terror attack during Hanukkah celebrations at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, saying that India and Israel both have a policy of “zero tolerance” against terrorism.
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Jaishankar, who reached Israel on Tuesday on a two-day visit, said, “Let me first of all convey our very, very sincere, deep condolences at the loss of life due to the terror attack at Hanukkah celebrations in Bondi Beach. I want to say that we condemn it in the strongest possible terms.”
He thanked Israel for its support of India in its fight against terrorism.
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At least 15 people were killed, and 40 were injured in an attack by two gunmen on a gathering celebrating Jewish festival Hanukkah on Sunday.
“Where India and Israel are concerned, both… have a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. We appreciate your consistent support in our fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” Jaishankar said.
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He said they will be discussing a strategic partnership between the two countries as India and Israel are “very complementary partners, and we must make the most of that.” He also reiterated India’s support for the Gaza Peace Plan and expressed hope that it will lead to a lasting and durable solution.
Later, he posted on X, “Pleased to meet FM @gidonsaar of Israel in Jerusalem today. Conveyed deepest condolences on terror attack on Hanukkah celebrations and reiterated our steadfast resolve in combating the shared challenge of terrorism.”
“Held productive discussions on our Strategic partnership and its further advancement across various domains. Also exchanged perspectives on regional developments, the Gaza Peace Plan and efforts to achieve lasting and durable peace,” he said.
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His visit comes as preparations are underway for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposed trip to India.
Netanyahu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke recently over the phone, after which the Israeli leader said the two would be “meeting very soon”.
During his stay, Jaishankar would also meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog and PM Netanyahu.
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