Israel has called upon India to designate Hamas as a terrorist organisation, in line with the actions taken by several other nations. The request was made following deadly attacks on Israeli cities by Hamas on October 7. Israel's Ambassador to New Delhi, Naor Gilon while speaking on the same acknowledged India's "solid support" for Israeli operations against Hamas. 


Ambassador Gilon emphasised the importance of India, a fellow democracy, joining the international community in designating Hamas as a terrorist outfit. Notably, countries such as the United States, Canada, and the European Union have already taken this step.


In a media briefing, Ambassador Gilon stated, "We spoke to the relevant authorities here. It is not the first time we spoke about it. I think we both understand the threat of terrorism. It is not something we are putting pressure on. We think it is something due because of our shared war on terror", as quoted by news agency PTI.


He added that Israel and India share a deep understanding of the challenges posed by terrorism and reiterated the ongoing dialogue between the two nations.


On October 7, Hamas launched unprecedented attacks on Israel, resulting in the tragic loss of over 1,400 lives. Hamas has also held more than 220 people hostage in Gaza. In response, Israeli authorities in Gaza report around 6,500 casualties due to retaliatory strikes.


PM Modi's Statement Set Very Strong Tone Of Clear Condemnation Of Terrorism: Israeli Ambassador


Ambassador Gilon expressed gratitude for India's unwavering support, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi's prompt and clear condemnation of terrorism. He noted, "Prime Minister Modi ji was among the first leaders in the world to come out with a very clear statement," highlighting India's moral standing and experience in countering terrorism as a victim itself.


"Prime Minister Modi was among the first leaders in the world to come out with a clear statement before we understood the full magnitude of what happened... I think that that set a very strong tone of clear condemnation of terrorism. It's important to us because India is a very close ally. India is also a very important moral voice in the world and when it comes to terror, India is also coming from the point of view of someone who knows what they're talking about being victims for so many years of terrorism," he said, as quoted by news agency ANI.



Regarding Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas, Ambassador Gilon emphasised the critical importance of the nation's survival in a challenging Middle Eastern neighborhood. He stated, "For Israel, it's a war of being able to survive in the Middle East. We live in a very tough neighborhood. In the Middle East, if you are perceived to be weak, your life is going to be miserable."


The envoy stressed that any indication of Hamas prevailing in the conflict could have far-reaching consequences in the region, making it an untenable outcome. As per PTI, Ambassador Gilon also reiterated the allegation that Iran has been supporting Hamas by providing financing, training, and equipment. It is essential to note that Iran has previously denied these allegations.


Israel continues to face complex challenges, and its plea to India to designate Hamas as a terrorist organisation underscores the global concern over the ongoing situation in the region.


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