UNSC Open Debate on Middle East

[Wednesday, 17 July 2024]
Statement by Ambassador R. Ravindra, Charge d'Affaires & Deputy Permanent Representative

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At the outset, I thank you for convening this high-level meeting on the situation in the Middle East. I also thank the briefers for their respective statements.

2. It has been 9 months since the Israel-Hamas conflict and the continuing humanitarian crisis is deeply concerning. India was among the countries which strongly and unequivocally condemned the terror attacks on Israel on 07 October 2023. We have also condemned the loss of civilian lives in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. We have called for restraint, de-escalation and emphasized the peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. We have also urged adherence to international law and international humanitarian law under all circumstances.

3. We reiterate the call for an immediate, full and complete ceasefire, safe, timely and sustained humanitarian assistance and unrestricted access to relief and essential humanitarian services in the Gaza Strip. In addition, we also call for immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. Towards this end, we appreciate the role played by countries in the region, particularly Qatar and Eqypt.

4. Our leadership has continued to engage with the leadership of both Israel and Palestine. We have consistently reiterated our position in all the relevant multilateral fora.

5. India stands for peace and stability in the region. It has been our long-standing position that we support a two-State solution which entails the establishment of a sovereign, viable and independent State of Palestine within recognized and mutually agreed borders living side by side with Israel in peace, with due regard to the security needs of Israel.

6. India was represented at senior level at the International High-Level Conference on urgent humanitarian response to Gaza held in Jordan last month.

7. India has always supported UNRWA’s strong role in human development and humanitarian services. Our developmental assistance to Palestine, in various forms, over the years, amounts to close to USD 120 million, including USD 35 million as contribution to UNRWA. India has been providing an annual contribution of USD 5 million since 2018 to UNRWA. We have already announced the disbursement of USD 2.5 million, the first trance of our annual contribution to UNRWA, which was transferred early this week, on 15^th of this month

8. To conclude, India stands ready to continue its engagement with the region, with an abiding faith in realizing the vision of sustained peace and stability in the West Asia.

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