External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed an event titled ‘Vishwabandhu Bharat’ in Nashik on Thursday, condemning the recent attacks on Israel as acts of terrorism. He emphasized that any nation subjected to terrorism has the right to respond. Jaishankar’s comments come in the wake of a severe escalation in the Israel-Hamas conflict, which began with a large-scale terror attack by Hamas on October 7.
Pleased to share thoughts in Nashik on the topic: Vishwabandhu Bharat. Thank Shwas Foundation for hosting it.
Vishwabandhu Bharat is a coming together of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and Bharat First policies in equal measure.
A decade of transformation under the Modi Sarkar has… pic.twitter.com/288NmHYsNr
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 16, 2024
Strong Condemnation of Terrorism
Jaishankar unequivocally condemned the October 7 attack by Hamas, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths, numerous hostages, and widespread violence, including sexual assaults against civilians.
He stated, “What happened against Israel on October 7th was terrorism, there is no question of second thought.” He reinforced the principle that a country victimized by terrorism would naturally respond to protect its citizens.
During his speech, Jaishankar criticized opposition parties in Bharat for their silence on the Israel-Hamas conflict. He suggested that their reluctance to speak out was due to concerns about disrupting their vote bank. He expressed disappointment over their lack of a clear stance on such a critical issue.
Jaishankar also mentioned the importance of minimizing civilian casualties and stressed the need for a sustainable resolution to the Palestinian issue. He called for a balanced approach that would ensure innocent lives are protected. “We also need to think about the civilians, to ensure that innocent lives are not lost,” he said, advocating for a fair and ethical stance on the conflict.
Bharat’s position on the Israel-Palestine conflict has been consistent. The nation supports a two-state solution, envisioning a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestine coexisting peacefully with Israel. Jaishankar reiterated Bharat’s support for Palestine’s full membership in the United Nations and stressed that lasting peace can only be achieved through direct negotiations between the involved parties.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also commented on the situation, revealing that Bharat sent a special envoy to Israel during the conflict to promote peace, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
In an interview, Modi said, “I sent my special envoy to Israel to explain that Ramadan is going on. At least don’t fight in Ramadan, don’t attack anyone.” He emphasized Bharat’s character of seeking peace and providing humanitarian aid without boasting about it.
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Modi reinforced that Bharat’s clear stance in the global community is one of peace and stability. He noted that while the world might choose sides in conflicts, Bharat remains steadfast in its commitment to peace. “We are not on the side of anyone. We are on the side of peace,” Modi emphasized.
Bharat’s leaders have taken a strong stand against terrorism, called for the protection of civilians, and urged for a lasting peace solution in the Israel-Palestine conflict. Through diplomatic efforts and a clear commitment to peace, Bharat aims to contribute positively to global stability.
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