India’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Ruchira Kamboj, strongly criticized the loss of civilian lives in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, emphasizing that the resulting humanitarian crisis is “unacceptable.”
Speaking at a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting on the situation in West Asia, Kamboj condemned the large-scale loss of civilian lives, particularly among women and children, due to the conflict. She acknowledged the terror attacks in Israel on October 7 as the immediate trigger for the hostilities and expressed India’s unequivocal condemnation of terrorism, emphasizing the country’s zero-tolerance approach.
Highlighting India’s continuous efforts to normalize the situation in the region, Kamboj stated that Indian leadership remains in constant communication with leaders from both Israel and Palestine. India has also voiced its stance in various multilateral forums, including the G20, BRICS, and the Global South Summit in November 2023. Kamboj reiterated India’s longstanding position on the Israel-Palestine issue, emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid for the affected population.
India has provided significant humanitarian aid, including 70 tonnes of assistance, comprising 16.5 tonnes of medicine and medical supplies in two shipments, to the people of Palestine. Additionally, India contributed USD 5 million, including USD 2.5 million provided in December 2023 to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees in the Near East.
Two-state solution
Emphasizing a commitment to a two-state solution, Kamboj stressed that a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy is the only way forward. India encourages the prevention of escalation, continued humanitarian aid delivery, and efforts for an early restoration of peace and stability.
Reaffirming India’s commitment to a just, peaceful, and lasting solution to the Israel-Palestine issue, Kamboj urged both parties to de-escalate, avoid violence, and create conditions for the resumption of direct peace negotiations.
Meanwhile, amid his fourth visit to the Middle East since the conflict began, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called on Israel to make “hard choices” to improve relations with more neighboring countries. His appeal is aimed at the establishment of a Palestinian state. Additionally, Blinken urged Israel to support Palestinian leaders willing to coexist peacefully with Israelis.
He also expressed concern that the daily toll in its conflict with Hamas in Gaza is too high. The India-Israel-Hamas conflict, which began on October 7 with the Hamas attack, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, with Israel continuing its military operations until victory is achieved.