India reiterates call for two-state solution in Israel-Palestine conflict at UNSC

India on Wednesday reiterated its position on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, advocating for a two-state solution to resolve the long-standing Israel-Palestine conflict. 

Speaking at the UN Security Council (UNSC), India’s Deputy Permanent Representative (DPR) to the United Nations, Ambassador R Ravindra, said “every effort must be made to create conducive conditions for the resumption of these talks.”

Ravindra updated the UNSC about India’s efforts to send humanitarian assistance to civilians in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing crisis. India has sent 38 tons of food and critical medical equipment, and they will continue to do so, the Indian envoy said. 

India on Sunday sent a C-17 aircraft of the Indian Air Force to Egypt’s El-Arish airport with around 38 tons of aid including 6.5 tons of medical aid and 32 tons of disaster relief material for the Palestinians suffering amid the war between Israel and Hamas militants. 

Speaking at the open debate on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, Ambassador Ravindra said, “India has always negotiated a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine issue, leading to the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine, living within secure and recognized borders, side by side in peace with Israel, taking into account the legitimate security concerns of Israel.”  

“We also continue to support the Palestinian people through our bilateral development partnership, which covers a wide range of sectors, including health, education, women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, and information technology…In these challenging times, India will continue to send humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine,” he added. 

He also expressed India’s concerns over the deteriorating security situation and large-scale loss of civilian lives in the ongoing conflict.

“The October 7 terror attacks in Israel were shocking and we condemn them unequivocally…Our PM was one of the first global leaders to have conveyed his condolences for the loss of lives and prayers for the innocent victims and their families. We stood in solidarity with Israel at their moment of crisis when they were facing these terror attacks…Our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured,” he said. 

India has maintained a consistent position on the Israel-Palestine issue, seeking two state-solution as a means to permanent peace in the region. 

“Our policy in this regard has been long-standing and consistent. India has always advocated the resumption of direct negotiations toward establishing a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine living within secure and recognized borders side by side at peace with Israel. That position remains the same,” the ministry of external affairs said on 12 October.