New Delhi: India Abstains on UNGA Resolution for Gaza, Advocates Two-State Solution

NEW DELHI: In a recent United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, India, along with several other countries, chose to abstain from voting on a crucial resolution addressing the Gaza crisis. The resolution, titled "Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations," aimed to emphasize the need for safeguarding civilians and ensuring unhindered humanitarian access in the Gaza Strip.

This UNGA resolution, submitted by Jordan and co-sponsored by over 40 nations, including Bangladesh, Maldives, Pakistan, Russia, and South Africa, garnered significant attention. The vote results indicated that the resolution was overwhelmingly adopted, with 120 member states voting in favor, 14 against, and 45 abstaining.

Notably, India was among the countries that abstained, alongside Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, Ukraine, and the UK. India's stance reflects its commitment to a long-standing policy supporting a negotiated two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, with the goal of establishing a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine living peacefully alongside Israel within secure and recognized borders.

Indian sources emphasized the importance of de-escalation, the rejection of violence, and the creation of conditions conducive to direct peace negotiations between the concerned parties. This position aligns with India's consistent advocacy for a peaceful resolution to the Israel-Palestine issue.

It's worth noting that the UNGA resolution did not explicitly condemn the terrorist attacks that occurred on October 7. An amendment was proposed to include this aspect before the main resolution vote. India supported the amendment, which received 88 votes in favor but did not reach the required two-thirds majority for adoption.

However, India's abstention during the final vote on the resolution's adoption was attributed to the fact that not all elements of India's approach were adequately covered in the resolution's text. While India recognized the importance of addressing the humanitarian crisis and protecting civilians in Gaza, it sought a more comprehensive approach that would encompass all aspects of the ongoing conflict.

India's abstention in the UNGA resolution vote on the Gaza crisis reflects its commitment to a negotiated two-state solution for lasting peace in the Israel-Palestine conflict. While supporting humanitarian efforts, India also seeks a resolution that considers the full spectrum of challenges in the region.

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