Kerala CM Condemns Israeli Minister's Visit Amid Gaza Tensions

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has lashed out at the central government's decision to host Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Labeling Smotrich as a far-right extremist, Vijayan questioned engaging with him amid the unrest in Gaza.

Through a social media post, the CM accused Israel's Netanyahu regime of fostering brutal occupation and suggested that aligning with such entities undermines India's historic support for Palestine. His statements reflect mounting concerns over India's evolving diplomatic stance.

Despite these criticisms, Smotrich engaged with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, culminating in a bilateral investment agreement aimed at enhancing mutual investment protection.

(With inputs from agencies.)