New Delhi, Feb 13 (NationPress) The Ambassador of Israel to India, Reuven Azar, has praised the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing his policies as highly beneficial for the Indian populace.

In a discussion with IANS, Azar emphasized that U.S. President Donald Trump's 20-point plan for Gaza presents the optimal opportunity to diplomatically address the outstanding issues in Gaza. He remarked that Israel has successfully dismantled a significant portion of Hamas's military capabilities and is committed to its demilitarization by implementing the 20-point plan.

Azar endorsed the recent trade agreement between India and the U.S., labeling it a crucial advancement that paves the way for enhanced economic collaboration.

Highlights from the interview:

IANS: What are your thoughts on India's trade agreement with the U.S.?

Reuven Azar: This is a significant development as it will provide greater avenues for economic collaboration. Israel is deeply involved with the American market, with approximately 80% of our foreign investments stemming from the U.S. Moreover, Israel serves as the largest innovation center outside the U.S. Therefore, as the market opens up, it fosters more opportunities for Israeli, Indian, and U.S. enterprises to collaborate.

IANS: How do you perceive PM Modi's leadership and its global repercussions?

Reuven Azar: The initiatives that Prime Minister Modi has championed in India are exceptionally favorable for the citizens. The emergence of hundreds of millions from poverty, the rapid construction across the nation, and the sustainable growth fostering new industries and innovation are vital. This is significant for us as we share democratic values, free trade, and freedom of expression, leading to a stronger India and, consequently, a stronger Israel.

IANS: What is your perspective on the effectiveness of the U.S.-backed ceasefire in Gaza?

Reuven Azar: The 20-point Trump plan for Gaza is currently our best avenue for diplomatically resolving the existing challenges. Israel has effectively neutralized a majority of Hamas’s military strength and taken control of over half of Gaza. By adhering to this 20-point plan, Hamas is supposed to commit to demilitarization.

Our aim is to achieve this through diplomatic channels. Unfortunately, they are currently backtracking on that commitment, but we trust that the U.S. and other peace-keeping nations will exert pressure on Hamas to disarm so that reconstruction efforts in Gaza can commence, as investment in the region remains contingent on the cessation of terrorist control and threats to stability.

IANS: Has Hamas disarmed as per the agreement?

Reuven Azar: We genuinely wish to give diplomacy a chance. It is essential to apply pressure on Hamas to disarm as it presents a viable option; otherwise, we will be compelled to resort to military action, which we prefer to avoid.

IANS: Why has Israel targeted Hamas operatives?

Reuven Azar: Regrettably, Hamas occasionally violates the ceasefire by encroaching upon the yellow line, attempting to undermine our forces, or engaging in activities aimed at rebuilding their capabilities. Israel is committed to the ceasefire terms, which prohibit such actions. Consequently, we respond swiftly to such provocations.

IANS: What if the U.S. attacks Iran?

Reuven Azar: The possibility of an attack remains uncertain, but there is a genuine attempt to resolve outstanding issues through diplomacy. Israel has made it clear that we require the dismantling of all capabilities that Iran has established to threaten our existence. They have openly declared their intent to annihilate Israel, even displaying countdown signs in Tehran. Therefore, all military nuclear programs, ballistic missile initiatives, and support for terrorist proxies targeting Israel must be dismantled.