'Welcome Any Help From India': Israel Envoy As He Acknowledges 'India's Special Place In World', Expresses Gratitude To All Indians For Support

As conflict between Israel and Hamas, a Palestinian militant group, has extended into its 13th day, Israel's Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, has stated that Israel would welcome any assistance India can provide in securing the release of over 200 individuals held captive by Hamas.

This request comes in the context of India's support for Israel in response to attacks by Hamas that have resulted in a significant loss of life.

Gilon while talking to The Indian Express stated, "PM Modi again expressed solidarity after speaking to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a few days later. Not just the Indian PM, we have got a show of support from all levels here — officials, ministers, civil society, and even people on social media."

Furthermore, Gilon has mentioned that if global powers can exert pressure on Hamas, and if India can engage with influential leaders connected to Hamas, Israel would appreciate such efforts.

The Ambassador further said, "Hamas commanders are living a life of luxury in places like Istanbul and Qatar. We understand that India has a special place in the world. Many countries are trying to put pressure on Hamas to secure the release of the innocent civilians. If India is able to speak to people who have influence over them, we would welcome that."

This aid will be allowed to enter Gaza through the Rafah crossing from Egypt, marking the first international relief effort to reach Gaza since the start of the conflict.

However, Israel remains cautious, fearing that aid deliveries might be used to smuggle weapons, while Egypt, which controls the border, is concerned about a potential influx of refugees.

Additionally, Gilon asserted that Hamas is apprehensive about the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and has been pressuring them to avoid further military action against the militants.

He also claimed that the explosion at Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza, which resulted in the deaths of over 500 people, was caused by a rocket launched by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

Hamas attributed the incident to an Israeli airstrike, while Israel and the United States argued that it resulted from a failed rocket launch by Islamist militants, who denied responsibility.