The Indian embassy in Israel has issued a cautionary advisory to Indian nationals working in the border regions of Israel, urging them to relocate to safer areas within the country. This advisory follows an anti-tank missile attack in Margaliot, Galilee region, which resulted in the death of one Indian citizen and the injury of two others. All three victims hailed from Kerala. The fatal incident occurred on Monday when an anti-tank missile, fired by Hezbollah militants from Lebanon, struck an orchard near Margaliot, a northern border community of Israel. The deceased victim has been identified as Patnibin Maxwell, while the injured individuals are Bush Joseph George and Paul Melvin.
Patnibin Maxwell, a 30-year-old native of Kollam in Kerala, tragically lost his life in the missile attack. His mortal remains were identified at Ziv Hospital, according to official sources. Bush Joseph George, 31, and Paul Melvin, 28, both from the Idukki district, sustained injuries and were promptly transported to hospitals for medical treatment.
While Paul Melvin’s injuries were reported to be minor, Bush Joseph George suffered more severe injuries to his face and body. He was admitted to Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva, where he underwent surgery and is currently in stable condition. He has been placed under observation and was able to communicate with his family in India, offering reassurance about his recovery progress.
The Israeli embassy in New Delhi expressed profound shock and sadness over the loss of an Indian national and the injuries sustained by two others in the cowardly terror attack orchestrated by the Hezbollah militia. The embassy condemned the attack, labeling it as an act of terrorism targeting innocent agricultural workers engaged in cultivating an orchard in Margaliot.
“Our prayers and thoughts are with the families of the deceased and the injured during this difficult time. Israeli medical institutions have extended their full support to provide the best possible medical care to the injured individuals, utilizing the expertise of our finest medical professionals,” the embassy announced in a statement posted on X.
The Hezbollah militants have been launching missiles into Israel in solidarity with Gaza, following the escalation of tensions after Hamas infiltrated Israeli territory and initiated terror activities in the border areas.
In response to the heightened security concerns, the Indian embassy has advised Indian citizens residing or working in the border regions of Israel to relocate to safer locations within the country until the situation stabilizes. This precautionary measure aims to safeguard Indian nationals from potential risks posed by ongoing hostilities and ensure their safety and well-being.
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the Indian community in Israel, prompting calls for enhanced security measures and vigilance among expatriates. The loss of a fellow countryman and the injuries sustained by others serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of conflict zones and the importance of exercising caution in such environments.
As the affected individuals receive medical treatment and support, efforts are underway to facilitate the repatriation of the deceased victim’s remains to Kerala, where grieving family members await their arrival. The Indian government, through diplomatic channels, is actively engaged in coordinating repatriation efforts and providing assistance to the affected families during this challenging time.
The incident underscores the need for heightened security measures and international cooperation to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of civilians residing in conflict-prone areas. It serves as a somber reminder of the enduring threat posed by terrorist organizations and the importance of collective efforts to address this global menace.
