Two Indian expatriates reportedly suffered injuries in a targeted assault in Ashkelon, Israel, which authorities have described as racially motivated. Reports indicate that the assailants have since been apprehended. The Israeli Embassy in India has condemned the attack, describing it as “absolutely unacceptable” and assuring that those responsible will face legal repercussions.

Details of the Assault

On February 16, a segment aired by KAN, an Israeli public broadcaster, depicted the violent incident. The footage shows the attack occurring in a public park, where two individuals were assaulted by a group. Accompanying Hebrew captions characterized the event as a “premeditated” assault fueled by “racism and malice.” It is alleged that the attackers coordinated their actions via WhatsApp before carrying out the assault on local Indian workers during daylight hours.

Context of the Attack

Ashkelon, situated approximately 50 kilometers from Tel Aviv and near the Gaza border, has a considerable population of foreign laborers, particularly from India. The specific timing of the incident remains unclear, although the video documentation was released on February 16. This attack occurred in the lead-up to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Israel on February 25 and 26, marking his second trip to the nation.

Political Implications

The visit by Prime Minister Modi was highlighted by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during an address at the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. Netanyahu referred to the strengthening relationship between India and Israel as a “tremendous alliance,” further emphasizing the political significance of Modi’s upcoming arrival in the country.

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