India had reiterated its demand for a complete and immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and asked for the release of hostages in Gaza without any conditions at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Open Debate on the Middle East.

India's Deputy Representative, R Ravindra, also criticized the October 7 attack on Israel, grieving the loss of lives in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Ravindra said, "We reiterate the call for an immediate, full and complete ceasefire, safe, timely and sustained humanitarian assistance and unrestricted access to relief and essential humanitarian services in the Gaza Strip. In addition, we also call for immediate and unconditional release of all hostages."

India emphasized peaceful coexistence by backing the two-state theory to de-escalate things in Gaza. India has openly supported the idea of establishing a sovereign, viable, and independent state of Palestine within recognized and mutually agreed borders, coexisting peacefully with Israel while considering its security needs.

India also appreciated the efforts of Egypt and Qatar in mediating with the leaders of Israel and Palestine to ease tensions between the two nations.

India's Humanitarian Response to Gaza Strip

The Indian ambassador further asserted that "It has been our longstanding position that we support a two-state solution that entails the establishment of a sovereign, viable and independent state of Palestine within recognized and mutually agreed borders, living side by side with Israel in peace. With due regard to the security needs of Israel, India was represented at the senior level at the International High-Level Conference on Urgent Humanitarian Response to Gaza held in Jordan last month."

Ravindra also highlighted India's developmental assistance to Palestine, which totalled around $120 million over the years. This includes a $35 million donation to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

hostages in Gaza
Image Source: Better World Campaign

Since 2018, India has been providing a yearly contribution of $5 million to UNRWA. An additional $2.5 million was recently disbursed, marking the first instalment delivered on July 15, 2024.

India reaffirmed its dedication to actively engaging in the region, with a strong commitment to achieving lasting peace and stability in West Asia.

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