Indias External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar held a telephone discussion on Saturday with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh regarding the situation in Gaza and the West Bank. S Jaishankar in conversation with Palestinian PM According to statements posted by Dr Jaishankar on social media, the Palestinian leader expressed deep concerns over ongoing events in the occupied territories. The two officials agreed to remain in contact on developments.In his X post, Jaishankar stated, Spoke to Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh this evening. He expressed deep concern about the situation in both Gaza and the West Bank. Reiterated Indias long-standing position on Palestine. Agreed to remain in touch.Spoke to Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh this evening.He expressed deep concern on the situation in both Gaza and the West Bank. Reiterated Indias long-standing position on Palestine. Agreed to remain in touch.— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 9, 2023Indias stand on Israel-Palestine India has historically taken a consistent position favouring Palestinian statehood and direct negotiations between parties to achieve a sovereign, independent and viable Palestine existing peacefully alongside Israel. Ministry of External Affairs Arindam Bagchi reiterated this stance when questioned by the media.Arindam Bagchi said, India has always advocated the resumption of direct negotiations towards establishing a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine living within secure and recognised borders side by side at peace with Israel. That position remains the same. PM Modi speaks with Palestinian President The conversation comes after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas last month, conveying condolences for civilian deaths at a Gaza hospital during an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) operation. PM Modi reaffirmed humanitarian aid would continue to be provided to Palestinian people in need.Clashes between the IDF and Hamas militants are ongoing in parts of Gaza amid the latest escalation of long-running tensions. Both sides continue military operations resulting in casualties, according to media reports. (With ANI inputs)
