Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz expressed gratitude towards India for its friendship and support in a meeting with Indian Foreign Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Monday. The discussions revolved around regional security threats, particularly focusing on the security of shipping and regional projects connecting India with the Middle East.
In a social media post, Minister Katz highlighted the importance of addressing security concerns in international waters, particularly with disruptions caused by Iran-backed Houthis affecting shipping lines. This disruption has raised economic concerns, impacting the prices of essential items and threatening regional peace.
The ongoing attacks also pose challenges to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) project, introduced at the G20 summit in September. This project is viewed by many as a countermeasure to China's Belt and Road Initiative.
Minister Katz emphasized the need to address the issue of abductees and invited Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar to visit Israel for further discussions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously discussed similar concerns with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November, stressing the importance of securing freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb, particularly against Houthi aggression instigated by Iran. Netanyahu had expressed gratitude for India's support in Israel's efforts to eliminate the Hamas terrorist organization.
(With Agency Inputs)
ALSO READ | Netanyahu Urges Qatar to Increase Pressure on Hamas for the Release of Hostages
ALSO READ | UNRWA Forced to Halt All Gaza Activities in Coming Weeks Due to Funding Suspension
