Permanent Mission of India

New York

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The Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question

UNSC Quarterly Open Debate

Statement by Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, Permanent Representative
30 April, 2025

Mr. President and Excellencies,

The second quarterly Open Debate on the Palestinian question in 2025 takes place in the backdrop of circumstances that are in stark contrast to the first one. While there was some respite in the form of a temporary ceasefire and halt to human suffering at the start of the year, unfortunately, operations have since resumed. Civilians, including women and children, are the biggest casualties in any conflict.

2. India has been clear and categorical on the conflict. We have repeatedly articulated our position in unambiguous terms. A ceasefire must be in place at the earliest, humanitarian assistance must flow without any hurdles, and all hostages must be released. The path to achieve these ends is dialogue and diplomacy and there is no alternative to this. India calls on all concerned parties to shun violence, release hostages and pursue the track of negotiations so that all people can lead normal lives. Each day of the last 18 months is thus a missed opportunity for peace and normalcy.

3. Mr. President, even as we pursue dialogue and diplomacy, let me reiterate that India has been one of the first countries to unequivocally condemn the terror attacks on 7 October 2023. Terrorism is unacceptable, whatever be the grievances, which must be addressed only through peaceful means.

4. Mr. President, India has stood by the Palestinian people and recognized the State of Palestine in 1988. Our various forms of assistance amount to over USD 120 million and projects worth USD 40 million are under implementation. We have undertaken people-centric projects in diverse areas with a view to create a lasting impact on daily lives. These efforts are complemented through our support to UNRWA which has a key role in delivering relief to the Palestinian people.

5. India acknowledges the need for rehabilitation, recovery, reconstruction and development in Gaza and takes note of various efforts and initiatives in this regard, including inter alia the plan endorsed by leaders of Arab States.

6. The formula for enduring and sustainable peace bears reiteration. It involves a two-State solution, with 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.

7. In closing, I would like to underscore that it is India’s desire to see peace and calm prevail in West Asia and we stand ready to work closely with all concerned stakeholders towards realizing this vision.

8. I thank you, Mr. President.

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