In a personally touching statement issued on Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the personal nature of Israel’s solidarity with India, noting that both he and his wife Sara stand with the Indian people following the devastating explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort. Netanyahu’s message to Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the human dimension of international relationships, emphasizing that diplomatic partnerships ultimately rest upon genuine empathy and shared values between peoples.
Netanyahu’s statement conveyed profound sympathy as he and Sara extended condolences to families who lost loved ones in the Monday evening blast that claimed at least eight lives and injured numerous others. The Israeli Prime Minister’s words reflected deep understanding of grief and loss informed by Israel’s own extensive experience with terrorism over decades. Netanyahu’s declaration that “Israel stands strong with you in sorrow and in strength in this time” acknowledged both the immediate emotional impact of tragedy and the longer-term commitment to partnership in addressing security challenges through comprehensive cooperation encompassing intelligence sharing, technological development, training programs, and diplomatic coordination in international forums.
The Israeli leader’s philosophical approach to understanding the India-Israel relationship emphasized the civilizational foundations of their partnership. Netanyahu’s characterization of both nations as ancient civilizations standing on eternal truths suggested that contemporary security cooperation reflects deep historical and cultural affinities developed over millennia. His assertion that “terror may strike our cities, but it will never shake our souls” conveyed confidence that the spiritual, cultural, and moral resources of democratic societies provide resilience far exceeding anything terrorist organizations can comprehend or overcome. The metaphor of light outshining darkness articulated optimism about civilization’s ultimate triumph over violent extremism.
The Monday evening explosion has prompted intensive investigation by Indian security authorities determined to identify perpetrators and dismantle enabling networks. The National Investigation Agency established a dedicated team following the Ministry of Home Affairs’ decision to transfer the case based on its terrorist nature. Intelligence sources indicate that a Jaish-e-Mohammad module orchestrated the attack, leading investigators to examine potential connections to broader terrorist infrastructure, financing mechanisms, recruitment practices, and support networks potentially operating across international borders. The NIA’s investigative approach involves senior officers of Superintendent rank and above, ensuring appropriate expertise while coordinating with various central and state security organizations to develop complete understanding of the attack’s planning and execution.
International solidarity with India following the Red Fort blast reflects global recognition of terrorism as a shared threat requiring multilateral cooperation and sustained commitment. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar had previously expressed condolences and reaffirmed Israel’s support for India’s counter-terrorism efforts through bilateral mechanisms developed over years of partnership. The blast occurred around 7 pm near the Subhash Marg traffic signal, involving a slow-moving Hyundai i20 that detonated, causing casualties and significant damage to nearby vehicles in a historically significant area. As investigations continue and authorities work to understand all dimensions of the attack, the incident underscores the importance of international partnerships in addressing terrorist threats through coordinated intelligence, enhanced security measures, and diplomatic efforts.