India has maintained continuous communication with the leaders of Israel and Palestine, expressing a "clear and consistent" stance to prevent escalation and prioritize the delivery of humanitarian aid, as well as the swift restoration of peace and stability. Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, addressed the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, emphasizing the unacceptable toll on civilian lives, particularly women and children, due to the Israel-Hamas conflict. She condemned the loss of civilians and underscored India's zero-tolerance approach to terrorism.
Kamboj acknowledged the terror attacks in Israel on October 7 as the immediate trigger, expressing unequivocal condemnation. India demands the immediate and unconditional release of hostages, emphasizing the nation's commitment to combating terrorism without justification. India, in constant contact with regional leaders, including Israel and Palestine, consistently advocates for de-escalation, continued humanitarian aid, and a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.
The UN General Assembly convened after the US vetoed a December 22, 2023, amendment by Russia to a Security Council resolution on humanitarian aid in Gaza. Despite the veto, a resolution, drafted by the UAE, was adopted, calling for increased humanitarian assistance without a ceasefire mandate. India commended the UAE's leadership in piloting the text, emphasizing its principled position on the issue in various multilateral forums.
India has provided 70 tonnes of humanitarian aid, including 16.5 tonnes of medicine, and contributed five million dollars, including 2.5 million in December, to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees. Kamboj reaffirmed India's commitment to a just, peaceful, and lasting solution through a two-state framework, achieved via direct negotiations. She urged de-escalation, non-violence, and the creation of conditions for renewed peace talks.
Ambassador Robert Wood, representing the US Mission to the UN, highlighted Washington's commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis and criticized the disconnected amendments proposed by Moscow, which were vetoed. Meanwhile, during the General Assembly session, a group of rabbis disrupted proceedings, demanding urgent UN action for an immediate, permanent ceasefire in Gaza and expressing dissatisfaction with the US veto. The rabbis recited prayers, held a memorial service, and displayed banners calling for President Biden to cease the veto and prioritize peace. Security escorted them out of the UN building.
(With Agency Inputs)
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