Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar met Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh amid rising tensions in the Middle East. The discussion included developments surrounding Israel’s operation in the Gaza Strip, with a note from the social network X indicating the focus on the evolving situation in the region.
During the exchange, Jaishankar conveyed that he had spoken with Shtayyeh and relayed India’s long-standing stance on the Palestinian issue. He stressed concern for the people affected by the conflict and underscored the importance of continued dialogue. The two leaders agreed to maintain contact as events unfolded, signaling an ongoing willingness to engage in conversations at high levels.
According to briefings from the Russian news agency TASS, India advocates a resolution to the Palestine issue through a pathway toward an independent Palestinian state. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson emphasized the need to initiate direct talks as a step toward implementing a two-state solution, aligning with principles frequently cited in New Delhi’s diplomatic posture.
In early October, Hamas undertook a large-scale rocket assault on Israel, announcing the launch of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood. Militants entered Israeli territory, seized equipment, and reportedly captured a number of individuals. Israel responded with Operation Iron Sword in the Gaza Strip, vowing to dismantle Hamas’s capabilities. The ensuing hostilities led to a blockade of the Gaza Strip, heavy bombardments, and mass displacement, prompting calls for the evacuation of large populations to safer areas in the south. International humanitarian concerns grew as aid organizations sought access to civilians and medical supplies amid the fighting.
On November 22, Israel announced an agreement with Hamas to release hostages held in Gaza. The plan outlined a four-day ceasefire during which Hamas would release dozens of women and children, with Red Cross teams permitted to visit remaining captives to provide medical care. Israel’s permanent representative to the United Nations stated that, after the pause, efforts would continue to address regional issues. The ceasefire began on November 24 but faced a premature halt on December 1, with Israel citing noncompliance by Hamas as the justification for suspending the pause.
Earlier attempts in Israel to address the Palestinian issue were part of a broader pattern of diplomacy and negotiation, reflecting ongoing debates about sustainable settlement approaches and security guarantees for all parties involved.