Israel-Hamas war: CPI MP writes to EAM on safety of Indian citizens stranded in West Asian region
Oct 09, 2023
New Delhi [India], October 9 : Communist Party of India (CPI) MP Binoy Viswam wrote a letter to Union External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar regarding the safety and security of Indian citizens stranded in the West Asian region amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas that has assumed very serious dimensions.
Binoy Viswam in a letter to S Jaishankar said, "I am writing to you seeking your intervention regarding the safety and security of Indian citizens stranded in the West Asian region amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas that has assumed very serious dimensions. It's painful for Indians that the Indian Government was quick in announcing support to Israel instead of ensuring the safety of Indian citizens first." 
"As you are aware, there are thousands of Indian citizens in the region as workers, small businessmen, students and tourists. A significant number of them are from the state of Kerala. In the event of recent attacks and counterattacks by Israeli security forces and Hamas, the lives of these Indian citizens are in danger. I request your intervention in carrying out an immediate evacuation process to safely rescue them from the war-like situation. India's historic ties with countries in West Asia and our championing of the cause of self-determination have earned traditional goodwill for us. India has had a history of successful rescue operations to ensure the safety of its citizens. I believe that you will take up the matter with the seriousness it merits" he added
CPI Upper House Member Viswam also urged to ensure that the Government stays committed to India's traditional stance of supporting the legitimate interests of Palestine for a life of dignity, respect and human rights.
"India's efforts on legitimate forums to ensure permanent peace in the region by upholding relevant United Nations resolutions for the two-state solution with pre-1967 borders and East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine will prove valuable in ensuring lasting tranquillity in the region" he added
According to Israeli local media cited by The Times of Israel, the death toll in Israel has jumped to 800 Israelis since Saturday's attack. According to the Israeli government, over 2400 people have been injured as well, according to Hebrew media reports.
Earlier expressing solidarity with Israel over the rocket strikes launched by Hamas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that India's thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families.
"Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour," PM Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter).
