India has reiterated its firm support for Israel and renewed its condemnation of terrorism in all forms, with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri drawing clear parallels between the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, and India’s long experience with cross-border violence. Speaking at an International Holocaust Remembrance Day commemoration hosted by the Israeli Embassy in New Delhi, Misri underscored India’s position that acts of terror cannot be justified under any circumstances and must be confronted with collective resolve.
Recalling the events of October 7, Misri said the attacks marked a moment of profound tragedy for the Jewish people, describing the killing of around 1,200 Israeli citizens and the abduction of hundreds more as an unprecedented loss in the post-Holocaust era. He noted that the scale and brutality of the assault had left a deep scar, echoing observations that more Jews were killed on that single day than at any time since the Holocaust. The Foreign Secretary said India could empathize with such suffering, having itself endured repeated acts of cross-border terrorism that targeted civilians and security personnel alike.
Misri referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swift response following the attacks, emphasizing that India had unequivocally condemned the violence and expressed solidarity with the people of Israel. He reiterated India’s long-held position that terrorism must be rejected in all its manifestations, regardless of where it occurs or the motives claimed by those responsible. According to Misri, India’s stance is rooted both in principle and in its own painful experiences with extremist violence.
The event was attended by Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar and several diplomats from Latin America and Europe, and took place against the backdrop of recent developments related to a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza under a US-backed peace initiative. Misri welcomed these steps, saying the return of hostages had brought significant relief to families who had endured prolonged uncertainty and trauma. He added that such measures offered a measure of closure and represented an important humanitarian outcome.
India, Misri said, continues to support sincere efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace and stability in West Asia. He described the Gaza Peace Plan as a viable pathway toward sustainable peace, noting that New Delhi had welcomed the progress achieved so far. At the same time, he stressed the importance of addressing security concerns and ensuring that terrorism does not derail diplomatic efforts in the region.
Highlighting the historical dimension of India’s ties with the Jewish people, Misri recalled India’s role as a place of refuge during the Second World War, when many countries shut their doors to Jewish refugees. He cited the enduring presence of Jewish communities in India and recent gestures commemorating shared history as symbols of a relationship built on trust and mutual respect. Concluding his remarks, Misri said India and Israel remain partners in progress, bound by democratic values and a shared commitment to resilience in the face of adversity, even as preparations continue for a future high-level visit between the two nations.
