New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a significant conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, addressing the intensifying conflict in the Middle East. In the wake of escalating tensions, PM Modi conveyed his deep concern and reiterated India’s firm stance that “terrorism has no place in our world.”
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi emphasized the need to prevent the situation from escalating further and urged the safe release of all hostages. He also reaffirmed India’s support for initiatives aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region.
The conversation between the two leaders comes at a critical juncture as Israel intensifies its military actions against Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group operating in Lebanon. In recent days, Israeli airstrikes have targeted key Hezbollah leaders, including the group’s chief, Hassan Nasrallah.
According to reports from the Washington Post, Israel is preparing for a limited ground offensive in Lebanon, which could commence imminently. Israeli officials have informed the United States of this operation, which is expected to focus on dismantling militant infrastructure along the border to safeguard Israeli communities from Hezbollah terror attacks. The operation is set to be narrower in scope compared to the 2006 Lebanon War, which saw a month-long conflict initiated by a Hezbollah cross-border raid that killed and captured Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers.
During the 2006 conflict, Israel’s military response included extensive air, land, and sea operations targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon. This time, the approach appears more restrained, with Israeli forces conducting limited raids in Lebanese territory as part of their strategy.
The volatile situation underscores the complexity of the conflict, with Israel’s actions aimed at neutralizing threats from Hezbollah while maintaining close coordination with its allies, including the US. As the world watches closely, PM Modi’s call for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution reflects India’s diplomatic engagement in the unfolding crisis.
