Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday had a phone conversation with Mahmoud Abbas, President of Palestinian Authority where he expressed India’s concern over terrorism and deteriorating security situation in the region.

Modi had extended his condolences to President Abbas over the death of civilians at the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza on 17th October 2023 that killed around 500 people.

Palestinian authorities blamed Israeli air strikes for the explosion at the hospital while Israel said it was caused by a misfired rocket launched from Gaza by militant group Palestinian Islamic Jihad, stated PTI.

PM Modi posted on X that during his conversation with Abbas, he shared India’s “deep concern at the terrorism, violence and deteriorating security situation in the region.” He also informed that he reiterated India’s long-standing principled position on the Israel-Palestine issue.

“We will continue to send humanitarian assistance for the Palestinian people,” PM added.

President Abbas shared his assessment of the situation and thanked Prime Minister for India’s support and appreciated India’s position.

The two leaders agreed to remain in touch, PMO informed.

PM Modi had on Wednesday expressed deep shock at the tragic loss of lives at the Hospital in Gaza. Offering heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, he expressed speedy recovery of those injured in a post on X.

“Civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict are a matter of serious and continuing concern. Those involved should be held responsible,” Modi asserted.

Since 7th October 2023, the Ministry of External Affairs has so far evacuated around 1200 Indian citizens in five flights from Israel under Operation Ajay.