WASHINGTON:Noting the “horrific terrorist attack” against Israel by Hamas, India and the US reiterated that both countries stand with Israel against terrorism and further called for adherence to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians.
The India-US joint statement after the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue called for the immediate release of all remaining hostages.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held the 2+2 Dialogue with their US counterparts, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on Friday in the national capital.
The Ministers affirmed their commitment to continue coordinating with partners in the Middle East region on humanitarian assistance to meet the urgent needs of Palestinian civilians in Gaza.
“They also expressed support for humanitarian pauses and committed to continue close diplomatic coordination, including with key partners in the region, to prevent the conflict from spreading, preserve stability in the Middle East, and work toward a political solution and durable peace,” the joint statement read.
In another major announcement, the Ministers unequivocally condemned terrorism and violent extremism, and the use of terrorist proxies and logistical, financial or military support to terrorist organizations, which could be used to launch or plan terrorist attacks, including international attacks.