PM Modi speaks to Benjamin Netanyahu, highlights India's stand in favour of peace restoration in Gaza

PM Modi called the interaction a "productive exchange", during which both leaders discussed "shared concerns" on the safety of maritime traffic in the region in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

"Had a productive exchange of views with PM @netanyahu on the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, including shared concerns on the safety of maritime traffic. Highlighted India’s consistent stand in favour of early restoration of peace & stability in the region with continued humanitarian assistance for the affected," PM Modi tweeted.

In the past few weeks, there have been several instances of attacks on cargo ships in the key Red Sea shipping route, prompting fears of a major disruption to international commerce.

According to the health ministry in Gaza, at least 19,600 people - most of them women and children - have been killed in Israeli attacks on the strip of land since October 7, when Hamas launched a multi-pronged surprise attack, killing around 1,200 civilians. Around 240 people had also been taken hostage.

The handle of the Israeli prime minister's office also posted about the conversation between PM Modi and Netanyahu.

It said that the two leaders "discussed the importance of securing freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb".

“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke today with Indian Prime Minister @NarendraModi. The two leaders discussed the importance of securing freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb, which is threatened by the aggression of the Houthis, instigated by Iran,” the Israeli prime minister's office posted on X.