NEW DELHI: India has expressed shock over the killing of women and children in the refugee camp in Rafah by Israel. The Ministry of External Affairs responded that the incident was heartbreaking and worrying. External Affairs Spokesperson Randeep Jaiswal said that the recognition of Palestine by Ireland, Norway and Spain is a continuation of India's position.

Jaiswal pointed out that India has consistently called for the protection of civilians and international humanitarian law in West Asia. India is assessing the situation after Israel claimed responsibility and announced an investigation.

India was one of the first countries to recognize the state of Palestine in the late 1980s. India has long supported efforts to establish a sovereign independent Palestinian state.

There is no proposal for a free trade agreement with the Maldives. If the Maldivian government expresses interest, India will consider it.

The situation in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, where civil unrest broke out, is normal, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. Two weeks ago, the violence against some foreign students is worrying. The Embassy has ensured the safety of the Indian students. A 24-hour help center was also opened. Daily direct flights are available on Delhi-Bishkek route and via Almaty to come home for vacation. Contact the embassy for assistance.