Asian governments have reacted to the recent Hamas attack on Israel with nearly unanimous condemnation of the violence.
Key Takeaways
- Asian governments, including traditional allies and countries sympathetic to the Palestinian cause, have overwhelmingly condemned the recent Hamas attack on Israel, expressing shock and concern over the escalating violence.
- The statements from Asian governments highlight the urgent need for a two-state solution and the protection of civilians, while also emphasizing the right of Israel to defend itself.
- The crisis has also raised questions about the prospects of normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel, as the Saudi Foreign Ministry pointedly blamed Israel for the situation, highlighting the dangers of continued occupation and provocations against Palestinian sanctities.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed solidarity with Israel, while China called for calm and restraint from all parties. Singapore, Thailand, Nepal, Japan, and South Korea all issued statements condemning the attacks and expressing concern for civilian casualties.
Thai Deputy Foreign Minister Jakkapong Sangmanee tweeted that he joined “the voices of condemnation of this indiscriminate attack, which unfortunately resulted in the loss of innocent lives . ”
The minister has also pledged to “do everything we can” to protect Thai citizens in Israel. As reported by the Bangkok Post, there are approximately 29,000 Thai nationals working in Israel, and two of them has been killed so far, while 11 have been captured.
Pakistan called for restraint and a two-state solution, while the United Arab Emirates expressed concern and called for a cease-fire. Saudi Arabia, which has been rumored to be considering normalization with Israel, called for the protection of civilians but also blamed Israel for the situation.