India Bats for Two-State Solution at UNSC, Says Will Send Food, Meds to Palestinian Civilians – News18

The Indian deputy permanent representative (DPR) to the United Nations R Ravindra on Wednesday pointed out that India sent 38 tons of food and critical medical equipment to Gaza Strip amid the 2023 Israel-Hamas conflict.

Ravindra was representing India at the United Nations Security Council Open-debate on the “situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question”, news agency ANI reported. Ravindra said that New Delhi remains deeply concerned about the deteriorating security situation and large-scale loss of civilians in the ongoing conflict while condemning the terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7.

“The mounting humanitarian crisis is equally alarming. India has sent 38 tons of humanitarian goods, including medicines and equipment, to the people of Palestine. We also urge the parties to work towards creating conditions necessary for peace and for restarting direct negotiations, including through de-escalation,” Ravindra said while speaking on the open debate on the latest chapter of hostilities in West Asia.

“In these challenging times, India will continue to send humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine,” Ravindra said.

“We stood in solidarity with Israel at their moment of crisis when they were facing these terror attacks. We have also expressed deep shock at the tragic loss of lives at the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza, where several hundreds of civilian casualties have occurred and thousands injured. Our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured,” Ravindra further added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks that India stands with people of Israel and condemns all forms of terrorism while also expressing his grief over the bombing of the Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza City.

Reiterating the need for pursuing a two-state solution in Palestine, Ravindra said global powers should work together to find lasting peace in the region.

“I reaffirm India’s unwavering commitment to the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine living within secure & recognized borders, side by side at peace with Israel. There’s no other alternative to a negotiated two-state solution,” Ravindra said.

“The unfolding humanitarian crisis needs to be addressed. We welcome the efforts of the international community for de-escalation and delivery of humanitarian goods to the people of Gaza. Towards this, we reiterate the need for an early resumption of direct peace negotiations,” he further added.

The Indian officials at the UN also pointed out that India is supporting Palestinian people through bilateral development partnership, which covers a wide range of sectors including health, education, women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship and information technology.