Ahead of Diwali, Israeli ambassador urges Indians to light a ‘diya of hope’ for hostages held by Hamas

Israeli ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, has called on Indians to light a "diya of hope" for the Israeli hostages held by Hamas militants since October 7. Gilon stated that lighting a diya, or lamp, during Diwali could symbolize the return of loved ones. He also mentioned that eliminating Hamas would reduce the chances of a ripple effect and discussed the use of civilians as human shields by the militants. “But Hamas used civilians as human shields. They hid in the hospital. There is international pressure on them,” he said.