India and Israel Bolster Strategic Ties Amid West Asia Tensions

India and Israel conducted a significant meeting, discussing bilateral initiatives and the escalating West Asia situation. The 17th Foreign Office Consultations focused on the Indo-Pacific and condemned the October 7 terror attacks. Both nations emphasized restraint, diplomacy, and mutual strategic partnership benefits.

India and Israel strengthened their strategic partnership during a key meeting on Wednesday, as they reviewed bilateral initiatives and addressed New Delhi's concerns over escalating tensions in West Asia, according to an official statement.

The 17th India-Israel Foreign Office Consultations (FOC), held in New Delhi, saw the two sides exchanging views on the prevailing situation in the Indo-Pacific. Leading the discussions were India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Israel's Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Yaakov Blitshtein.

Reiterating India's strong condemnation of the October 7 terror attacks on Israel, Foreign Secretary Misri called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and adherence to international humanitarian law. Both nations discussed various bilateral issues in depth and reflected on their strategic partnership.

(With inputs from agencies.)