“Committed To Support A Two-State Solution”: India On Gaza Conflict

India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ruchira Kamboj, reiterated India’s unwavering support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict during her address at the United Nations General Assembly Meeting on the Use of Veto. Emphasizing the need for direct negotiations between both parties, Kamboj underscored India’s stance on achieving enduring peace in the region.

“Only a Two-State solution, achieved through direct and meaningful negotiations between both sides on final status issues, will deliver an enduring peace. India is committed to support a Two-State solution where the Palestinian people are able to live freely in an independent country within secure borders, with due regard to the security needs of Israel,” Kamboj stated.

Highlighting the urgency for immediate de-escalation, Kamboj urged all parties to eschew violence and work towards creating conditions for an early resumption of direct peace negotiations. She condemned the loss of civilian lives, particularly women and children, in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, stressing the need to prevent further escalation of violence and hostilities.

Reiterating India’s steadfast stance against terrorism, Kamboj demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, calling for humanitarian aid to be scaled up to address the alarming humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The conflict in Gaza escalated after the October 7 attack by Hamas, resulting in casualties and the seizure of hostages. While Israel has characterized its offensive as targeting Hamas’ infrastructure, efforts to minimize civilian casualties remain crucial.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated Israel’s refusal to agree to a ceasefire, emphasizing the need to eliminate the entire terror group. Recent negotiations between Israel and Hamas have shown some progress, with Hamas backing off key demands and pausing the fighting in Gaza.

Following a meeting between US, Egyptian, and Israeli intelligence chiefs and the Qatari prime minister, significant progress has been made in resolving major obstacles, paving the way for potential ceasefire agreements and the release of hostages.

The international community, including India, continues to play a pivotal role in advocating for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, reaffirming the importance of upholding international law and humanitarian principles in addressing the ongoing crisis in Gaza.