Two Indian nationals were reportedly attacked in what authorities suspect was a racially motivated assault in the city of Ashkelon, according to Israeli media reports. The incident has drawn attention as it occurred shortly before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Israel on February 25–26.
As reported by TRT World, citing Israeli sources, the two workers were allegedly beaten in what has been described as a deliberate and targeted attack. Israeli authorities have confirmed that the individuals suspected of carrying out the assault have been taken into custody.
In an official statement, the Embassy of Israel in India strongly condemned the incident, calling the actions of the assailants “absolutely unacceptable.” The embassy stated that Israeli police had identified and arrested those responsible and assured that legal action would be pursued to ensure accountability.
A video report released on February 16 by Israel’s public broadcaster KAN showed footage of at least two men being attacked by a group in what appeared to be a public park. The accompanying Hebrew captions characterised the assault as a “premeditated” act motivated by racism and hostility. The report suggested that the perpetrators coordinated their actions through WhatsApp messages before identifying and targeting Indian workers in the neighbourhood. The alleged attack reportedly took place in broad daylight.
Ashkelon is situated approximately 50 kilometres south of Tel Aviv and lies relatively close to the Gaza border. The city hosts a sizeable population of foreign workers, including a notable number of Indian nationals employed in various sectors. It remains unclear exactly when the assault occurred, although the video coverage was made public on February 16.
The episode comes just days before Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to Israel, marking his second official trip to the country. The visit was publicly announced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his address to the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations. During his speech, Netanyahu highlighted the strength of bilateral relations between India and Israel, describing the partnership as a “tremendous alliance,” and indicated that Modi is expected to address the Israeli Parliament during his visit.
The timing of the alleged assault has added sensitivity to the situation, given the diplomatic engagements planned between the two nations in the coming days.
