India has aligned with 157 other countries in supporting a key United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution that calls for an “immediate, unconditional, and permanent” ceasefire in Gaza.
This resolution, which was passed on Wednesday, aims to halt the ongoing violence in the region, particularly in the wake of the prolonged conflict between Israel and Hamas. The vote was an important step in the international effort to end the fighting and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The resolution passed with overwhelming support, receiving 158 votes in favour, while nine countries, including the United States, Israel, and several others, voted against it. Thirteen countries abstained from the vote.
The UNGA also passed a second resolution in support of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
This agency, which has provided vital assistance to Palestinian refugees since its establishment in 1949, has recently faced significant challenges, particularly from Israel, which has accused some of its employees of having links to Hamas.
Despite their non-binding nature, UNGA resolutions carry significant weight in shaping global opinion. The resolutions highlight the international community’s concern about the ongoing violence and the need for a ceasefire.
They also emphasize the importance of providing humanitarian aid and ensuring that the suffering of civilians in Gaza is addressed. The vote followed two days of intense debate at the General Assembly, where delegates urged for an end to the 14-month-long conflict, which has caused immense loss of life and displacement.
The resolutions also reflect the broader international response to the situation in Gaza. The US, which has been a key ally of Israel, vetoed a similar resolution at the UN Security Council on November 20.
This veto was based on the absence of a clause linking the ceasefire to the release of hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, which marked the beginning of the current conflict. The US’s stance has been a point of contention, as many countries have called for an immediate ceasefire without preconditions.
India’s position on the issue has been consistent. The country has strongly condemned the October 7 attacks, calling them acts of terrorism, and has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.
At the same time, India has reiterated the need for a ceasefire to prevent further bloodshed and to allow for the delivery of humanitarian aid to those in need. New Delhi has also urged all parties involved in the conflict to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
India has long been a proponent of diplomacy and dialogue in resolving conflicts, and its call for a ceasefire reflects its commitment to these principles. The country’s diplomatic efforts in the region have focused on supporting a just and lasting peace, while ensuring that international humanitarian law is respected.
India has also expressed concerns about the escalating violence in the Middle East and has repeatedly called for efforts to address the root causes of the conflict, including the humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people.
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