India, March 15 -- National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval's visit to Israel this week was aimed at building on the Indian government's efforts to promote peace and stability in West Asia amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, the external affairs ministry said on Friday.

Doval met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during the previously unannounced visit, which came against the backdrop of growing concern in New Delhi over the fallout of the conflict in the Gaza Strip.

"As you are aware, the prime minister himself is invested and keen to promote peace and stability in the region. He has been in touch with several Arab leaders in this connection," external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told a regular media briefing. ...