'Fullest protection to diplomats', Jaishankar assures Israel FM after blast outside embassy in Delhi

A minor blast was reported near the Israel Embassy here on Friday evening. However, there were no casualties reported in the incident.

As per reports, the blast occurred at Abdul Kalam Road, which is just about 1.5 km away from Vijay Chawk where the Beating Retreat ceremony was held.

In a tweet, Jaishankar said India has taken the incident "very seriously".

"Spoke just now to Israeli FM Gabi Ashkenazi about the explosion outside the Israeli Embassy. We take this very seriously. Assured him of the fullest protection for the Embassy and Israeli diplomats," Jaishankar tweeted.

He added that the matter was under investigation and India will "continue to act resolutely to locate those involved in the explosion."

After Jaishankar's assurance, the Israeli FM also tweeted to say that the Indian authorities are committed to the security of all Israeli diplomatic staff and will continue to act resolutely to locate all those involved in the explosion.

"The Indian FM assured me that the Indian authorities are committed to the security of all Israeli diplomatic staff and will continue to act resolutely to locate all those involved in the explosion. I thanked him and promised full cooperation and any help required from Israel," Ashkenazi wrote.

"There were no injuries, and all of our staff are safe at home. We are working with Indian authorities to find the perpetrators and the motive behind this attack. The incident happened on the 29th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the countries," the Israeli Embassy said in a statement.

 "The incident is under investigation by the authorities in India who are in contact with the relevant Israeli authorities. Authorities from both sides are cooperating in the investigation," it added.

Windshields of at least three vehicles were broken in the blast but no report of any injury or death was reported.

Speaking to media, Delhi Police said a very low-intensity improvised device went off at 5.05 pm near 5 APJ Abdul Kalam Road near Jindal house.

"No injury to any person is there and nor any damage to property was witnessed except window panes of 3 vehicles parked nearby," the police said.

Initial impressions suggest a mischievous attempt to create a sensation.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah took stock of the situation and Delhi Police Commissioner SN Shrivastava has visited the site.

Shah also cancelled his visit to Kolkata on Friday after the blast happened.