Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Dec 16: External affairs minister S Jaishankar arrived in Israel on Tuesday, marking the next leg of his West Asia tour, and is scheduled to meet Israeli foreign minister Gideon Sa’ar later in the day. His arrival was welcomed by Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, who greeted him publicly on social media.

Ahead of the visit, Jaishankar had conveyed his greetings to Sa’ar and the people of Israel on the occasion of Hanukkah, expressing hope that the Festival of Lights would bring peace, optimism and happiness. Sa’ar responded warmly to the message, thanking Jaishankar for his wishes.

Jaishankar has also been vocal in condemning recent acts of violence against the Jewish community. On Sunday, he strongly denounced the terrorist attack targeting Hanukkah celebrations at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, stating that India stands with the victims and their families.

The visit comes shortly after a high-level interaction between India and Israel. On December 10, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during which both leaders reviewed developments in West Asia, discussed strengthening the India-Israel Strategic Partnership, and reiterated their shared policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. The Prime Minister’s Office noted that India continues to support efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace in the region.

Jaishankar arrived in Israel after concluding his visit to the United Arab Emirates, where he co-chaired the 16th Joint Commission and the 5th Strategic Dialogue with UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi. During those discussions, the two sides reviewed the full spectrum of the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and outlined future priorities. Reflecting on the engagement, Jaishankar said that deeper cooperation between India and the UAE is essential for advancing shared interests and enhancing regional and global stability.