During the UN Security Council’s open debate on the “situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question,” India’s Deputy Permanent Representative (DPR) to the United Nations, Ambassador R Ravindra, announced that India has dispatched 38 tonnes of food and vital medical supplies to the Gaza Strip. This move comes as Gaza grapples with Israel’s intense retaliatory airstrikes.
Ambassador Ravindra emphasized India’s commitment to humanitarian assistance, stating, “India sent 38 tonnes of humanitarian goods, including medicines and equipment, to the people of Palestine. We also urge the parties to work towards creating conditions necessary for peace and for restarting direct negotiations, including through de-escalation and issuing violence.”
He noted the worsening humanitarian situation, asserting that the escalation of hostilities in the region has exacerbated the already dire conditions. The fragile nature of the ceasefire has been underscored once again.
In a pledge of continued support, Ambassador Ravindra stated, “In these challenging times, India will continue to send humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine.”
Gaza has witnessed substantial casualties as Israel persists in its bombing campaign. These attacks followed the October 7 Sabbath attack by Hamas, during which more than 5,000 rockets were fired at Israel.
India has unequivocally condemned the terror attack, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi among the first global leaders to convey condolences for the loss of lives and express prayers for the innocent victims and their families. Ambassador Ravindra reiterated India’s solidarity with Israel during this crisis.
He also expressed deep shock at the tragic loss of lives at the Al Hali hospital in Gaza, where hundreds of civilian casualties occurred, and thousands were injured. He extended heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured.
Ambassador Ravindra emphasized that those responsible for the attack “must be held responsible.” India is deeply concerned about the deteriorating security situation, the significant loss of civilian lives, and the escalating humanitarian crisis.
India welcomed the resumption of aid movement into Gaza and stressed the urgency of addressing the unfolding humanitarian crisis. Ambassador Ravindra highlighted India’s support for a two-state solution in the Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasizing the need for a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state living in peace alongside Israel within secure and recognized borders, taking into account Israel’s legitimate security concerns.
He reiterated the importance of early resumption of direct peace negotiations and India’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian people through bilateral development partnerships covering various sectors. The current escalation of conflict has underlined the necessity for credible and direct negotiations between Israel and Palestine, and Ambassador Ravindra welcomed all regional and global efforts aimed at restoring normalcy to the region.