Jerusalem, April 16 (NationPress) Gideon Sa'ar, Israel's Foreign Affairs Minister, emphasized the necessity for India to classify Hamas as a terrorist organization during a discussion with prominent Hindu leaders from across the globe.

"I highlighted the significance of India designating Hamas as a terrorist entity. Hamas maintains connections with various radical Islamist terrorist groups, including Lashkar-e-Taiba," Sa'ar remarked during the virtual meeting.

The Israeli Foreign Minister expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to address the esteemed leaders.

"I discussed the favorable developments in the enhancement of Israel's ties with India and the immense value we place on this partnership. Additionally, I outlined the historic battle Israel has faced over the past 2.5 years against radical Islam, whose avowed aim is the destruction of Israel, pursuing that objective relentlessly.

"Israel has shown its strength on all fronts. It has significantly weakened the terror network of radical Islam, primarily orchestrated by the Iranian regime. This struggle carries, and will continue to carry, ramifications beyond the Middle East," Sa'ar stated.

The leaders in attendance included Abhishek Verma, the Chief National Coordinator for NDA Alliance and Elections from Shiv Sena, humanitarian leader Mohanji, and spiritual guide Gauranga Das Prabhu.

Earlier this year, during his trip to Israel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India's support for Israel in its battle against terrorism.

"I also bring with me the heartfelt condolences of the Indian populace for every life lost and for every family whose existence was shattered in the brutal terrorist assault by Hamas on October 7. We empathize with your suffering. Our grief is shared. India stands resolutely with Israel, both now and in the future. No cause can rationalize the killing of civilians. Nothing can justify terrorism. India has also experienced the anguish of terrorism for an extended period," PM Modi conveyed in his address to the Knesset, the Israeli Parliament, in February.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended his gratitude to PM Modi for his unwavering support for Israel following the Hamas attacks in October 2023.

"There is another reason for the profound appreciation you receive here in this assembly and from the Israeli public. Immediately following the horrific slaughter on October 7, you stood up clearly, morally, and decisively in support of Israel. We will always remember that. We recognize what we are up against. However, many around the globe, perhaps with momentary sympathy, quickly forgot. Israel stands, has stood, and will continue to stand at the forefront of civilization against radical Islam," Netanyahu expressed during a special Knesset session honoring PM Modi.