'Concerned About Possibility of Broadening Conflict': Jaishankar As Tensions Rise in Middle East

New Delhi: Reacting to the recent escalation in conflict in the Middle East as Israel is engaged in retaliation from millitant groups Hamas and Iran-backed Hezbollah, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday expressed his concern over the unstablilty, in terms of peace and security, in the region.

Speaking at the conversation at the Carnegie Endowment in the US, Jaishankar described Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel a “terrorist attack".

The EAM also reiterated that any country, even in times of dispute, should act in accordance with the international humanitarian law while being mindful about any damage or implications for civilian populations.

The EAM said, "...We regard the October 7th incident as a terrorist attack. We understand that Israel had a need to respond, but we also believe that any response by any country must take into account international humanitarian law and be careful about any damage or implications for civilian populations..."

"We are very concerned about the possibility of a broadening conflict, not just in Lebanon but also regarding the Houthis and the Red Sea, and to some extent, anything that may happen between Iran and Israel. So, while it is one thing to be concerned...," said Jaishankar while acknowledging the rising likelihood of the widening of the conflict.

Terrorism has no place in our world: PM Modi speaks to Netanyahu 

Amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East, Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday. This was the fourth conversation between the two leaders in the past one year since the Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel.

PM Modi emphasised on the significance of averting further escalation in the region, underlining that "Terrorism has no place in our world. It is crucial to prevent regional escalation and ensure the safe release of all hostages." He reiterated India's dedication to assisting in the swift restoration of peace and stability.