PTI

New Delhi, Jan 7:  The CPI(M) on Tuesday asked the government to take a lead at the diplomatic level to stop Israel from carrying out military attacks in Gaza.

CPI(M) General Secretary Prakash Karat said "there are several countries, including those which are members in the UN security council, wanting to do something to stop ongoing attacks at Gaza by Israel. Government of India should lead these countries to stop attacks on Gaza".

He was talking to reporters after addressing a function organised to celebrate 50th anniversary of Cuba revolution.

"The government of India, however, has so far only made statements on three or four occassions that Israel should stop attacks at Gaza but is yet to take any concerte step in this regard," Karat said.

Pointing out that no member-country of the UN has so far come forward to help stop Israeli operations in Gaza strip, he said "India can do something to stop this if it intends to".

But, India has developed a strong relationship with Israel, he added.

Karat said CPI (M) wants to help Palestinian people, who are victims of Israeli attack, but it has been facing problems in sending relief material as this has to pass through Israeli authorities.

Karat hailed the Cuban revolution and expressed solidarity with the country's people saying the "Cuban revolution is glorious for us".