SRINAGAR: India has reiterated its commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Palestine issue amidst ongoing conflict in the Gaza region. In response to questions raised by Members of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi and Raja A in the Lok Sabha, the Ministry of External Affairs outlined India’s diplomatic and humanitarian efforts, as well as its stance in international forums.
The Government expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and emphasised the importance of ensuring “safe, timely, and sustained delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine.” Since the outbreak of the conflict, India has provided 70 metric tonnes of humanitarian aid, which includes 16.5 metric tonnes of medicines and medical supplies. Financial support totalling US $10 million has been provided over the last two years to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Additionally, 65 tonnes of medicines were dispatched to UNRWA and the Palestinian Ministry of Health in October and November this year.
India’s longstanding policy supports a two-state solution, envisioning “the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine within secure and recognised borders, living side by side in peace with Israel.” The statement reiterated India’s backing of Palestine’s membership in the United Nations, reinforcing its consistent position on the issue.
The government also addressed concerns over the escalation of violence, condemning the terror attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, and expressing regret over the loss of civilian lives in the ongoing conflict. The government has called for “a ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Minister of External Affairs have been actively engaging with global leaders, including the President and Prime Minister of Israel and the President and Foreign Minister of Palestine, to facilitate dialogue. India has raised its position at various international forums, including the United Nations, BRICS, the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), and the Voice of Global South.
During the Summit of the Future held in New York on September 22, 2024, Prime Minister Modi met with the Palestinian President. The discussion reiterated India’s support for a ceasefire and a return to diplomacy as the only viable path forward.
India has thus balanced its historical support for the Palestinian cause with its broader diplomatic engagements, seeking to mediate through humanitarian aid, dialogue, and advocacy for peace.
