EAM Jaishankar
NEW DELHI: External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday strongly condemned the terror attack that took place during a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, underlining that India and Israel follow a policy of “zero tolerance” towards terrorism.Jaishankar, who is in Israel on a two-day visit, made these remarks while speaking to reporters alongside Israeli foreign minister Gideon Moshe Sa’ar.Expressing condolences, Jaishankar 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.”The attack occurred on Sunday when two gunmen opened fire at a gathering held as part of the Hanukkah by the Sea event, leaving at least 15 people dead and 40 others injured.
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Referring to cooperation between the two nations on counterterrorism, Jaishankar acknowledged Israel’s backing of India and stated, “Where India and Israel are concerned, we are both countries that have a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. We appreciate your consistent support in our fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.”He said discussions during his visit would focus on deepening the strategic partnership between India and Israel, which he observed has “really developed very significantly in the last decade.” Stressing the strength of the relationship, Jaishankar noted that the two countries are “very complementary partners,” and should fully utilise this potential.Jaishankar also reiterated India’s support for the Gaza peace plan, voicing hope that it would result in a durable and lasting outcome.Jaishankar’s visit comes at a time when preparations are underway for a proposed visit to India by Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu and PM Modi recently spoke over the phone, following which the Israeli leader said they would be “meeting very soon.”
