Briefing media in New Delhi, Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said 230 passengers are expected to be onboard the flight which will reach India tomorrow morning. He said India is keeping a close watch on the situation in Israel which is evolving and dynamic.
Mr Bagchi requested all Indians in Israel to register with the Embassy there. The spokesperson said there are 18 thousand Indian citizens in Israel, including students and caregivers. He also said that the role of Indian Air Force in assisting in bringing back Indians cannot be ruled out.
Responding to a question on Palestine, Mr Bagchi said, India’s policy in this regard has been long standing and consistent. He said India has always advocated the resumption of direct negotiations towards establishing a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine living within secure and recognized borders, side by side at peace with Israel.
The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson also stressed that there is a universal obligation to observe international humanitarian law and there is also a global responsibility to fight the menace of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
On Kerala woman reportedly injured in Hamas attack in Israel, Mr Bagchi said the person is in hospital and improving. He said they have not heard of any casualty so far.
Replying to another query, the spokesperson said India remains committed to ensuring parity in diplomatic presence and is engaged with Canadian authorities to ensure this parity.
