As tensions with Iran grew, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu engaged in a series of top-level talks on Friday with leaders across the world, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The overtures came as Israel began a new military operation called Operation Rising Lion with the aim of nullifying what it termed a massive nuclear threat from Iran.
Prime Minister Modi, confirming the call on social media site X, said, "Received a phone call from PM Netanyahu of Israel. He updated me on the developing situation. I expressed India's concerns and stressed early restoration of peace and stability in the region."
As per a statement from Netanyahu's office, the Israeli leader has had a few world leaders that he has spoken with since the beginning of the operation, including the leaders of Germany, France, and India, and was planned to link with others like U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the UK Prime Minister.
The comment further said, "The leaders were sympathetic to Israel's defense requirements in light of the Iranian threat of destruction; the Prime Minister stated that he would remain in touch with them in the days ahead."
Earlier during the day, Netanyahu openly confirmed that Israel had initiated Operation Rising Lion, a pinpointed strike aimed at preventing Iran's suspected quest for nuclear weapons. He stated that the operation would continue "for as many days as it takes" to destroy the threat to Israel's existence.
As part of the operation, Israeli Air Force (IAF) warplanes bombed Iran's central uranium enrichment plant in Natanz. The attack, based on accurate intelligence, was focused on the underground part of the complex—referred to as containing key components for uranium enrichment.
"This is Iran's largest uranium enrichment facility that has been operating for years in order to become a nuclear weapons state and contains the facilities necessary for enriching uranium to military levels," reported the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on X.
They added:" As part of the attacks, the underground area of the facility was destroyed. This area includes a multi-level enrichment hall with centrifuges, electric rooms, and additional supporting facilities. Furthermore, important infrastructure facilitating the continuous operation of the site as well as the Iranian regime's continued attempts to acquire nuclear weapons was targeted.
The IDF reiterated their ongoing dedication to stopping Iran from achieving nuclear capability.
In response to the events, India's Ministry of External Affairs put out a statement that was deeply concerned about escalating hostilities as well as reports of nuclear facility attacks. The ministry reinforced India's interest in diplomacy and de-escalation.
“India urges both sides to avoid any escalatory steps. Existing channels of dialogue and diplomacy should be utilised to work towards a de-escalation of the situation and resolving underlying issues,” read the statement. It also noted India’s close and friendly ties with both nations and affirmed readiness to offer support in facilitating peace.
The Indian government also ensured that its missions in both Iran and Israel remain in constant touch with Indian citizens in the two countries. The citizens were cautioned to remain vigilant and adhere to local safety advisories.
Simultaneously, Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar is said to be in constant touch with his international counterparts, briefing them on the cabinet's unified decision to embark on war. Concomitantly, Israel's Foreign Ministry has gone into emergency mode, opening a crisis coordination center to oversee diplomatic interaction and international messaging.
Israel's activities will be conducted diplomatically and via the media in all forums to facilitate diplomatic legitimacy for the military operation," announced the Israeli Foreign Ministry.
As tensions between the region and the outside world escalate, the international community waits with bated breath in hope of averting a broader conflict in already unstable Middle East.
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