Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has voiced his shock and concern over the tragic loss of lives in an attack on a Gaza hospital. The Prime Minister's statement came amidst the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has seen a significant escalation in violence. Up to 500 people were believed to have lost their lives in an explosion at the al-Ahli Arab Hospital in the Gaza Strip, a facility run by the Anglican church. This incident has raised serious questions about civilian casualties in the conflict. Both the Hamas militant group, which controls Gaza, and Israeli authorities have traded accusations regarding the responsibility for the blast.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his deep shock at the incident, offering heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayers for the swift recovery of those injured. He emphasized the serious and continuing concern over civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict and called for those involved to be held responsible.
Notably, Modi's statement did not delve into the specifics of what caused the explosion, which remains a contentious issue between the two parties involved.
The Gaza conflict, marked by violence and hostilities, intensified after the Hamas assault on southern Israel in early October, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. India, while expressing solidarity with Israel and denouncing the attacks as "terrorist attacks," has consistently supported direct negotiations for the establishment of a sovereign state of Palestine that can coexist with Israel.
The incident at the al-Ahli Arab Hospital has triggered global outrage and protests, both in Arab countries and Western capitals. It occurred on the eve of U.S. President Joe Biden's visit to Israel, and Jordan canceled a planned meeting between Biden and leaders from Jordan, Egypt, and the Palestinian Authority in response to the hospital blast.
As the situation in Gaza remains complex and volatile, international efforts are being made to prevent further civilian casualties and bring about a resolution to the conflict. The world watches with concern as leaders grapple with the challenges and complexities of the situation in West Asia.
