Following the devastating explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a comprehensive statement on Wednesday pledging continued Israeli partnership with India in confronting terrorism. Netanyahu addressed Prime Minister Narendra Modi directly, emphasizing that the Monday evening attack, while causing immediate tragedy and grief, would not diminish the strong bilateral relationship between two nations committed to mutual security, democratic values, and regional stability.
Netanyahu’s message conveyed profound personal sympathy, with the Israeli leader and his wife Sara expressing condolences to families who lost loved ones in the blast that claimed at least eight lives and injured numerous others. The statement reflected genuine compassion informed by Israel’s own extensive experience with terrorism and deep understanding of the long-lasting impact such attacks have on individuals, families, and communities. Netanyahu’s assurance that “Israel stands strong with you in sorrow and in strength” articulated a vision of partnership encompassing multiple dimensions: immediate emotional support during times of crisis, ongoing security cooperation through intelligence sharing and technological development, training and capacity building, and sustained diplomatic coordination in international forums addressing terrorism and regional security challenges.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s characterization of India and Israel as ancient civilizations provided historical context for understanding their contemporary alliance as reflecting deep cultural affinities rather than mere strategic convenience. Netanyahu’s assertion that both nations “stand on eternal truths” suggested that their partnership draws upon millennia of accumulated wisdom, philosophical reflection, and commitment to fundamental values that transcend immediate political considerations. His declaration that “terror may strike our cities, but it will never shake our souls” conveyed both defiance toward terrorist organizations and confidence in democratic societies’ capacity to withstand violence without compromising essential principles or surrendering to fear, regardless of the sophistication of attacks or immediate devastation they cause.
The Monday evening explosion has prompted intensive investigation by Indian security agencies determined to identify all perpetrators, understand operational methods, and dismantle networks that enabled the attack. 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 and resources while coordinating with various central and state security organizations to develop complete understanding of the attack’s planning, execution, and enabling factors.
International responses to the Delhi tragedy have highlighted global solidarity with India and shared determination to combat terrorism through coordinated action and sustained cooperation. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar had previously expressed condolences and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to supporting 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 and prevent similar incidents, the incident underscores the persistent threat posed by terrorist organizations and the critical importance of international partnerships in addressing this challenge through coordinated intelligence, enhanced security measures, and diplomatic efforts to isolate and eliminate terrorist networks threatening regional and global security.