India Voices Concern Over Escalating Middle East Conflict: Jaishankar Calls for Dialogue
New Delhi, 2nd October 2024: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed India’s growing concern regarding the intensifying conflict in the Middle East, particularly the potential for tensions between Israel and Iran to escalate into a full-scale war. He emphasized India’s willingness to engage through dialogue and diplomacy to address the situation.
“Do not underestimate the significance of communication during challenging times. If there are messages to convey or exchange, these efforts can contribute positively,” Jaishankar stated during a discussion with a think tank in Washington, just hours before Iran launched a significant missile attack against Israel.
He highlighted concerns about the widening conflict, noting, “Our worries extend beyond the incidents in Lebanon to the involvement of the Houthis and activities in the Red Sea, as well as any interactions between Iran and Israel.”
Jaishankar underscored that any response from nations must comply with international humanitarian law and protect civilian lives. “We view October 7 as a terrorist attack and understand Israel’s need to respond. However, we believe that any country’s reaction should consider international humanitarian law and prioritize the safety of civilian populations,” he added. “It is essential to establish some form of international humanitarian effort.”
On Tuesday, Iran fired at least 180 missiles into Israel in retaliation for the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and the ongoing Israeli military operations in the area. This development raises the risk of a broader regional conflict, as both Israel and the United States have pledged to respond forcefully against Tehran.
