Israel-Iran tensions a matter of deep concern, worries all: S Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said India was constantly monitoring the situation in the region and had advised its citizens to exercise caution.

In Short

• S Jaishankar expresses 'deep concern' over Iran-Israel conflict
• Calls on both countries for immediate de-escalation in tensions
• India advises citizens to not travel to either Israel or Iran

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday called for an immediate de-escalation after Iran fired a barrage of missiles and drones towards Israel. He also called the situation a "matter of deep concern". Jaishankar's remarks came after Iran launched hundreds of drones, ballistic missiles and cruise missiles at Israel directly from its territory, causing damage to an air base.

In an exclusive conversation with India Today, S Jaishankar said, "It is a matter of deep concern because it represents an escalation in this situation, something which worries all of us," Jaishankar said.

"We have for some time been concerned about the situation there starting with the October 7 attack on Israel, escalating into other dimensions and other zones which is deeply worrying. We have particular stakes in that region," he added.

India is constantly monitoring the situation in the region and has advised its citizens to exercise caution.

"Right now we have advised people not to travel to Israel or Iran. We have asked those who are already there to take utmost precaution. That's the sensible thing to do right now. We will watch what happens further and if we have to issue advisories or take steps, we will do that," Jaishankar told India Today.

The Iranian drone attack on Israeli territory on Sunday marked a major escalation in the shadow war between the two nations.

US President Joe Biden said the country helped Israel take down "nearly all the incoming drones and missiles". His statement came after Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a telephone conversation following the Iranian attack.

The US, UK, Germany, Argentina and France, among other nations, have condemned the Iranian attack on Israel. India also appealed to the two countries to 'exercise restraint.'

Published By:
Vivek
Published On:
Apr 14, 2024