India-Arab Strategic Dialogue: External Affairs Minister Jaishankar Emphasizes Gaza Crisis and Maritime Security, Issues Stern Warning on Terrorism

In a high-level diplomatic engagement, India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, articulated critical regional security concerns during the India-Arab Cooperation Forum. The discourse centered on the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the imperative of safeguarding maritime routes, underscoring these as pivotal to regional stability. Concurrently, Minister Jaishankar delivered an unequivocal condemnation of terrorism, framing it as a fundamental threat to shared civilizational bonds and collective progress. This stance aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's characterization of the Arab world as India's 'extended neighbourhood,' a concept rooted in deep historical ties and a mutual dedication to peace and development. The dialogue signals India's proactive diplomatic posture in addressing complex geopolitical challenges, reinforcing its role as a consequential actor committed to fostering a secure and cooperative framework within this strategically vital corridor. The emphasis on maritime safety reflects growing concerns over global supply chain vulnerabilities, while the focus on Gaza highlights India's engagement with pressing humanitarian dimensions of international conflicts. This intelligence assessment notes the integration of hard security concerns with broader civilizational and developmental narratives as a hallmark of contemporary Indian foreign policy.