New Delhi: Hours after the Israeli strike on the nuclear sites of Iran and the killing of two prominent Iranian officials, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the phone and briefed him on the evolving situation in the Middle East. During the emphasis on the need for early restoration of peace and stability.
“Received a phone call from PM @netanyahu of Israel. He briefed me on the evolving situation. I shared India’s concerns and emphasised the need for early restoration of peace and stability in the region,” Modi said on X.
Israel attacked Iran early on Friday
Earlier in the day, Israel attacked Iran in strikes in which two Iranian military officers were killed and nuclear sites were hit, raising tensions in the Middle East. Iran reciprocated hours later by targeting hundreds of drones towards Israel.
![What’s in theatres this Friday? [October 18]: Love Reddy, Rewind, and more!](https://i0.wp.com/www.indiapostlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Whats-in-theatres-this-Friday-October-18-Love-Reddy-Rewind.png?resize=330%2C220&ssl=1 "What’s in theatres this Friday? [October 18]: Love Reddy, Rewind, and more! 5")
The latest strikes came while increasing tensions between both nations over Iran’s alleged increase in the nuclear programme. Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also warned of “severe punishment” on Israel after the strike. Hours later, Israel also claimed to have intercepted Iranian drones.
MEA expresses deep concerns
Following the development, the Ministry of External Affairs said that India is “deeply concerned” over the recent developments and is “closely monitoring” the evolving situation.
In its message, the MEA said it is “deeply concerned at the recent developments between Iran and Israel.” It further added, “We are closely monitoring the evolving situation, including reports related to attacks on nuclear sites.”
The government also urged both nations to “avoid any escalatory steps”. It noted that “existing channels of dialogue and diplomacy should be utilised to work towards a de-escalation of the situation and resolving underlying issues.”
