Olmert praises Indian commondos for tackling hostage crisis

Jerusalem, Dec 2 (PTI) Appreciating the "bold and daring"
response of the Indian security forces in dealing with the
multiple hostage crisis during terror attacks in India's
financial hub Mumbai, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has
expressed solidarity with Indian government in fighting
terrorism.

In a telephonic conversation, Olmert told his Indian
counterpart Manmohan Singh that courage and determination are
important elements in dealing with terror.

Both leaders agreed to continue with cooperation between
the two countries and pledged to work closely in the fight
against terrorism.

Singh thanked the Israeli premier for his empathy and
extended the Indian people's condolences over the killings of
the Israelis at the Chabad centre in Mumbai, a statement from
Olmert's office said.

"The Indian authorities' determined action stemmed from
the understanding that there can be no negotiations with
terrorists and that they must be dealt with by force," the
statement quoted Singh as saying.

Earlier, Israeli counter-terrorism experts had criticised
India's handling of the hostage crisis, especially at the
Chabad House where nine people were killed.

However, Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi dismissed the
criticism saying that the Indian commandos did the "utmost
possible". PTI