India Takes Neutral Stand in UN Vote on Israel-Hamas Conflict, Emphasizes Zero-Tolerance for Terrorism
In a recent development at the United Nations General Assembly, India abstained from voting on a Jordanian-drafted resolution called Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations. The resolution aimed to establish an immediate humanitarian truce in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and ensure unhindered humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip.
India, while abstaining from the vote, emphasized its zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. The country’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Yojna Patel stated that terrorism is a malignancy that knows no boundaries and should be condemned outright. India urged the world not to justify acts of terror and called for unity in adopting a zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism.
While expressing its concern over the escalating violence and significant civilian casualties in the conflict, India highlighted the need for all parties involved to demonstrate utmost responsibility. The country also called for the immediate and unconditional release of hostages.
The resolution, which received 121 votes in favor, 44 abstentions, and 14 member states voting against it, called for an immediate and lasting humanitarian truce, as well as the provision of essential goods and services to civilians in the Gaza Strip. It also demanded the establishment of humanitarian corridors to facilitate the delivery of aid.
India stressed the importance of addressing the humanitarian crisis, welcoming international efforts to de-escalate tensions and provide assistance to the people of Gaza. The country itself has contributed 38 tons of humanitarian goods, including medicines and equipment, to Palestine.
India has consistently supported a negotiated two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine issue, advocating for the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state alongside Israel. The country urged all parties to de-escalate violence, eschew hostility, and work towards creating conditions for the resumption of direct peace negotiations.
While the resolution did not explicitly mention Hamas, the militant group involved in the conflict, the General Assembly considered an amendment proposed by Canada and co-sponsored by the US. India supported the amendment, which condemned the terrorist attacks by Hamas and called for the immediate release of hostages. However, the amendment failed to secure the required two-thirds majority for adoption.
The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the collapsing humanitarian system in Gaza, underscoring the urgent need for aid to reach the population swiftly and at scale. He called for a fundamental shift in how aid is delivered and emphasized the importance of allowing life-saving supplies to reach civilians.
The situation in the Israel-Hamas conflict remains highly complex and volatile, with the plight of civilians caught in the crossfire worsening each day. As diplomatic efforts continue, the international community must strive for a peaceful resolution that safeguards the lives and well-being of all those affected by the conflict.
