India has welcomed the recent UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during the holy month of Ramadan, deeming it a positive step. Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, expressed deep concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis resulting from the Israel-Hamas conflict, emphasizing the unacceptable loss of civilian lives, particularly among women and children.
The resolution, passed on March 25, urged all parties to observe a ceasefire throughout Ramadan and called for the unconditional release of hostages, along with providing humanitarian access to address urgent medical and other needs. This resolution marked a significant breakthrough in the prolonged Israel-Hamas conflict, with 14 out of 15 Council members voting in favor and the US abstaining.
However, just days before the resolution was adopted, permanent members Russia and China vetoed a similar resolution proposed by the US, sparking further debate and highlighting the urgency for action. Kamboj reiterated India's staunch stance against terrorism in all its forms, condemning attacks on Israel and emphasizing the need for immediate and unconditional hostage release.
India voiced grave concern over the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, emphasizing the necessity of scaling up humanitarian aid to prevent further deterioration. Kamboj commended the efforts of the United Nations and the international community in pursuing peace in the region, reaffirming India's commitment to providing humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine.
India reiterated its support for a two-state solution achieved through direct negotiations, with Palestinians living freely in an independent country alongside Israel. Kamboj urged all parties to create conditions conducive to resuming peace negotiations promptly.
Quoting statistics from the Ministry of Health in Gaza, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported significant casualties, underscoring the urgent need for action to address the crisis. The ongoing conflict in Gaza was described as a "blight on our common humanity" by President Dennis Francis of the UN General Assembly, who urged Security Council members to support an immediate and lasting ceasefire on the ground.
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