India and Israel Issue Strong Joint Condemnation of Terrorism Ahead of PM Modi's Visit
Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Israel, India and Israel have issued a powerful joint statement unequivocally condemning terrorism in all its forms, including cross-border terrorism. Both nations reaffirmed their zero-tolerance stance against terrorist activities, marking a significant moment in their bilateral relations.
Condemnation of Specific Terror Attacks
The joint statement specifically condemned what they described as "brutal terror attacks in both countries." This includes the October 7, 2023, terror attack in Israel and the dastardly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, among other acts of violence. Both countries emphasized the urgent need to hold perpetrators accountable for these heinous crimes, underscoring their commitment to justice and security.
Outcomes of Counter-Terrorism Working Group Meeting
This strong declaration followed a productive meeting of the India-Israel working group on counter-terrorism. During this crucial dialogue, both sides exchanged comprehensive views on global and regional terror threats. They expressed particular concern over the increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and artificial intelligence (AI) for terrorist purposes, highlighting how technology is being weaponized by extremist groups.
The discussions covered a wide range of traditional and emerging threats, including terrorist recruitment strategies, the abuse of technology platforms, and sophisticated terror financing networks. Both nations explored practical ways to strengthen their cooperation through enhanced training programs, improved cybersecurity measures, systematic exchange of best practices, and more efficient information sharing mechanisms.
Renewed Commitment to Multilateral Cooperation
The two sides renewed their firm commitment to multilateral cooperation in the global fight against terrorism. They pledged to work together more closely to combat terror groups and their supporters through international forums and bilateral channels. This renewed partnership comes at a critical time when terrorist organizations are evolving their tactics and exploiting new technologies.
The timing of this joint statement is particularly significant, as it sets the stage for Prime Minister Modi's visit to Israel, where counter-terrorism cooperation is expected to be a central topic of discussion. The strengthened alliance between India and Israel in this area reflects their shared security concerns and determination to create a safer global environment free from the scourge of terrorism.
