S. Jaishankar: India’s Aid to Palestine and Support for Two-State Solution Continue
New Delhi, December 5 : External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s unwavering support for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict while addressing the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. He also underscored India’s stance against terrorism and hostage-taking, emphasizing their importance in international deliberations.
Jaishankar explained India’s decision to abstain from certain United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolutions on the Gaza conflict, citing concerns over the lack of balance and failure to address key issues like terrorism.
India’s Support for Two-State Solution
Responding to a question from TMC MP Saket Gokhale, Jaishankar stated, “We support the two-state solution and have been public and unambiguous about it. There should be no cause for confusion regarding this position.”
Jaishankar reiterated that India’s stance on the matter remains firm and consistent, advocating for peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine.
India’s Non-Membership in ICC
In response to queries about the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrants against Israeli and Hamas leaders, Jaishankar clarified India’s position. He stated that India is not a member of the ICC and is therefore not bound by its decisions. He added, “India decided against ICC membership after thorough deliberation. As such, we have not taken a formal position on its rulings.”
Humanitarian Assistance to Palestine
Jaishankar detailed India’s continued support for Palestine through humanitarian aid. He highlighted India’s annual contribution of USD 5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which was increased from USD 1 million under the current government.
In 2023, India provided 70 metric tons of aid, including 16.5 metric tons of medicines. In 2024, India has delivered 65 metric tons of medical aid to the Palestinian Authority and UNRWA, with an additional 33 metric tons sent to Lebanon.
India’s Abstentions at UNGA
Addressing India’s abstention from certain UNGA resolutions on Gaza, Jaishankar explained the rationale. He said the resolutions lacked balance, failed to mention critical issues like terrorism and hostage-taking, and were not well-considered.
He remarked, “Resolutions that do not reflect the entirety of the situation cannot be supported. As a country that has been a victim of terrorism, India cannot ignore or downplay its implications.”
India’s Balanced Approach
Jaishankar emphasized that India takes a nuanced view of international resolutions, prioritizing their wording and implications. He condemned terrorism and hostage-taking, urged adherence to humanitarian law, and called for a ceasefire and an end to violence.
Historical Context
The Gaza conflict reignited following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, prompting Israel’s counter-offensive. India condemned the Hamas attack, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi being among the first world leaders to denounce it. India has since reiterated its commitment to a two-state solution, advocating peace and coexistence in the region.
This reaffirmation of India’s position underscores its balanced approach to international diplomacy, focusing on humanitarian concerns while addressing the broader challenges of terrorism and violence.
