New Delhi: Prime Minister Modi, in an interview with an English daily, on Wednesday shed more light on India's stance regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. India, traditionally supporting the Palestinian cause, has instead concentrated on strengthening ties with Israel during Modi's tenure, marked by shared technology and ideologies.

Modi highlighted India's efforts in providing humanitarian aid to Gaza and reiterated support for a two-state solution. Previous reports indicated that India dispatched two C-17 flights to Egypt's El-Arish airport, approximately 45 kilometres away from Rafah. These flights carried over 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief material in two separate trips each.

Additionally, Modi mentioned being in contact with leaders from both Israel and Palestine. "I remain in touch with the leaders in the region," he stated, underlining India's willingness to contribute to peace efforts. The PM also added that "If there is anything India can do to take forward efforts towards peace, we will certainly do so." His remarks reflect India's balancing act in the conflict, nurturing relations with Israel while upholding historical support for Palestine.

Modi and Netanyahu’s recent phone-a-friend

A few days before the interview, on December 19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in an important phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The discussion addressed the evolving dynamics of the Israel-Hamas conflict and other significant issues. This interaction marked the second dialogue between the leaders since the October 7 Hamas attacks, following an initial conversation on October 10.

During the exchange, both leaders expressed concerns about maritime traffic safety, with Modi reiterating India's stance favouring the restoration of peace and stability in the region. He additionally highlighted the need for continuous humanitarian aid to support affected populations and urged a peaceful resolution to the conflict, implying the release of all hostages through diplomatic dialogue.

The leaders discussed shared concerns about the threat posed to freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb by Houthi aggression, allegedly influenced by Iran. This aggression has led to attacks on Israel-linked ships in the Red Sea, causing several major shipping companies to alter their routes or cease operations in the region.

Furthermore, the discussions involved expediting the arrival of Indian workers in Tel Aviv to support Israel's pending construction projects. Israel, facing a labour shortage due to conflict-induced disruptions, had previously explored the possibility of bringing workers from India during Israeli Minister Nir Barkat's visit to Delhi earlier in the year.

The dialogue concluded with an agreement between the leaders to maintain communication amidst evolving developments in the region.