Jerusalem

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday strongly denounced the terror attack that occurred during Hanukkah celebrations at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, asserting that both India and Israel follow a firm policy of “zero tolerance” towards terrorism.

Jaishankar, who arrived in Israel for a two-day visit, made the remarks during a joint media interaction with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Moshe Sa’ar. Expressing condolences over the loss of lives, he said India unequivocally condemns the attack in the strongest terms.

“At the outset, I wish to convey our deepest sympathies for the lives lost in the heinous terror attack during Hanukkah celebrations at Bondi Beach. Such acts of violence are unacceptable and must be condemned without reservation,” Jaishankar said.

The attack, which took place during the ‘Hanukkah by the Sea’ event, claimed at least 15 lives and left around 40 people injured. Two gunmen opened fire on the gathering, and authorities later identified them as a 50-year-old Indian passport holder who had migrated to Australia decades ago and his 24-year-old Australian-born son.

Highlighting the shared security outlook of India and Israel, Jaishankar said both nations are united in their uncompromising approach towards terrorism in all its forms. He also thanked Israel for consistently backing India’s efforts to combat terrorism.

“India and Israel are alike in our absolute intolerance towards terrorism. We value Israel’s steadfast support in addressing this global menace,” he said.

Jaishankar noted that the bilateral relationship has expanded significantly over the past decade, encompassing government-to-government cooperation, strong business ties, and vibrant people-to-people exchanges. He described the partnership as multi-dimensional and said there are numerous sectors where collaboration continues to grow.

The External Affairs Minister also reiterated India’s support for efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region, including the Gaza peace initiative, expressing hope that it would lead to a durable resolution.

Following the meeting, Jaishankar shared on social media that discussions focused on advancing the India-Israel strategic partnership across a wide range of areas, while also exchanging views on regional developments and peace initiatives.

During his visit, Jaishankar also met Israeli President Isaac Herzog, conveying greetings from President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to peace in the region and discussed further deepening bilateral ties.

President Herzog later said the meeting explored avenues to strengthen strategic cooperation between the two countries, including expanding regional connectivity initiatives such as the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor.

Jaishankar’s visit comes amid preparations for an anticipated visit to India by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The two leaders recently held a phone conversation, during which they agreed to meet in the near future.

Senior officials said Jaishankar is also expected to meet Netanyahu during his stay, with talks focusing on enhancing cooperation on bilateral and regional issues.

The visit follows a series of high-level exchanges between India and Israel, including ministerial visits earlier this year, as both countries work towards finalising a Free Trade Agreement. Recent milestones include the signing of a Bilateral Investment Treaty and progress on defence cooperation agreements promoting joint development and technology sharing.

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Cultural and academic collaboration has also gained momentum, with initiatives such as film festivals, artistic exchanges, and the establishment of an India Chair at Tel Aviv University under an agreement signed with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations.