In a significant move, India joined 157 other nations in voting in favor of a United Nations General Assembly resolution demanding an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution, introduced by Indonesia, was approved during the 10th emergency special session of the 193-member assembly on Wednesday.
The resolution called for an end to hostilities, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and compliance with international law, particularly in protecting civilians. Among the nine nations opposing the resolution were Israel and the United States, while 13 countries, including Albania and Ukraine, abstained.
Key Highlights of the Resolution
- Ceasefire and Hostage Release: The resolution demanded the immediate implementation of a ceasefire, the release of hostages, the exchange of prisoners, and the return of the remains of those killed.
- Humanitarian Assistance: It emphasized urgent access for the civilian population in Gaza to essential services and humanitarian aid, rejecting any efforts to starve the population.
- Compliance with International Law: All parties were called upon to adhere to international law, particularly regarding the treatment of detainees and the protection of civilians, including women and children.
- Two-State Solution: The resolution reaffirmed the commitment to a two-state solution, envisioning Israel and a sovereign Palestinian State living side by side in peace and security.
- Territorial Integrity: It rejected any attempts at demographic or territorial changes in Gaza and stressed the importance of unifying Gaza and the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority.
India’s Stance on Palestine
This vote aligns with India’s consistent support for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Last week, India also voted in favor of another General Assembly resolution titled “Peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine,” which called for Israel’s withdrawal from territories occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem. The resolution, tabled by Senegal, received broad support with 157 votes in favor and only eight against.
Humanitarian Focus
The General Assembly’s resolution highlighted the urgent need for unimpeded humanitarian assistance in Gaza. It demanded safe and unhindered delivery of aid across all regions, particularly for civilians in besieged areas. The resolution also stressed the importance of allowing displaced Palestinians to return to their homes and ensuring the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
International Reactions
The vote underscores the global community’s call for an end to the escalating violence in Gaza. However, the opposition by Israel and the United States reflects the complexities of achieving consensus on such measures.
India’s affirmative stance reinforces its long-standing support for the Palestinian cause while advocating for a peaceful and just resolution in the Middle East. This vote underscores New Delhi’s commitment to upholding international law and addressing humanitarian concerns amid the ongoing crisis.
