Blast near Israel embassy in Delhi, none hurt; Israel issues advisory

New Delhi: Tel Aviv has said that the explosion near the Israel embassy in New Delhi was likely an attack, and has put out an advisory for Israelis living in India, particularly in New Delhi after a low-intensity blast on Tuesday evening resulted in a high alert in the capital.

The authorities in Israel have cautioned the country’s citizens in India to avoid visiting public places such as malls and markets and not to participate in crowded events. It also asked them to stay alert and "avoid externalizing Israeli symbols".

"Avoid participating in events with many participants that are not secure. Avoid posting trip details on social networks and posting photos and visit details before the trip and in real time," the advisory says, reports NDTV.

A blast took place last evening near the Israel embassy in Chanakyapuri, which is the diplomatic neighbourhood in the national capital. The blast was reported on a call by an unidentified caller to the Delhi Fire Service at around 6 pm earlier on Tuesday.

Officials said nobody was injured in the incident and no damage to property was reported from the site, adding that a high-alert was also sounded in the national capital following the explosion.

An "abusive" letter wrapped in an Israeli flag and addressed to the Israeli ambassador was found near the blast site, they added.

Soon after the explosion, teams from the Delhi Police crime branch, a bomb disposal squad, a dog squad and the forensic department were rushed to the spot. The site was also examined by a team from the National Investigation Agency.

Israeli embassy spokesperson Guy Nir has said the blast took place around 5.48 pm. "Delhi Police and the security team are still investigating the situation," he said.

Deputy Chief of Mission (Israel) Ohad Nakash Kaynar said, "All our diplomats and workers are safe. Our security teams are working in full cooperation with local Delhi security and they will investigate the matter further."

The one-page letter was reportedly sent for forensic examination to check for fingerprints.

The incident comes amid the Israel-Hamas conflict triggered by the October 7 terror attacks by the militant group. While 1,200 Israelis died in the terror attacks, Israel’s bombardment of Gaza has killed nearly 21,000 people and injured around 55,000.

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