PM Narendra Modi expresses solidarity with Israel amid clashes with Palestine

Meanhwile, India has asked its citizens in Israel to remain 'vigilant' and observe safety protocols amid war-like situation in the country after Palestine announced 'military operations' there.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed solidarity with Israel after Hamas militants launched an attack on the country.

Modi condemned it as 'terrorist attacks' in Israel as its leader Benjamin Netanyahu said the country is at war.

"Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour," Modi said.

A surprise attack by Hamas militants from Gaza at daybreak killed at least 22 Israelis on Saturday even as Prime Minister Netanyahu declared 'war' and said his country would extract an 'unprecedented price' from its enemy.

Israel's national rescue service said at least 22 people were killed and hundreds of others wounded in the Hamas military incursion, making the operation the deadliest in Israeli territory in years.