Why Did India Abstain on a UNGA Resolution Criticizing Israel?
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Synopsis
In a recent UNGA session, India abstained from a resolution critical of Israel, advocating for dialogue and diplomacy as crucial to resolving the Gaza conflict. Explore the implications of India's position and its commitment to humanitarian aid for Gaza.
Key Takeaways
- India abstained from the UNGA resolution critical of Israel to promote dialogue and diplomacy.
- Permanent Representative P. Harish emphasized India's support for humanitarian aid.
- The resolution received wide support but faced abstentions and opposition.
- India advocates for a Two-State Solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
- Humanitarian aid efforts from India continue amidst the ongoing crisis.
United Nations, June 13 (NationPress) India has once again chosen to abstain from a General Assembly resolution that criticizes Israel, emphasizing that efforts should concentrate on fostering dialogue and diplomacy to bring both parties in the Gaza conflict closer together. India was among the 19 nations that abstained on the resolution adopted on Thursday, which received 149 votes in favor, while 12 countries, including the United States, voted against it.
In explaining this abstention — the third in a series — Permanent Representative P. Harish stated that it stems from the conviction that conflicts can only be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. "Our collective efforts should be directed towards facilitating closer ties between the two sides. For these reasons, we abstain on this resolution," he remarked.
Harish further noted, "India has consistently supported peace and humanity." He reiterated that India’s position on this resolution is consistent with its previous abstentions on two others.
Those previous resolutions were a December 2022 measure addressing the human rights of Palestinians in occupied territories and another from December 2024 requesting the World Court's opinion on Israel's obligations to the UN and associated bodies.
The resolution, put forward by Spain during an emergency special session of the Assembly, "strongly condemned" what it termed the "use of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare and the unlawful denial of humanitarian access."
It called for an immediate cessation of the blockade of Gaza by Israel and demanded that humanitarian aid be permitted to reach all areas of the region in sufficient quantities.
In addition, it condemned any suggestions to transfer or deport the Palestinian population from Gaza. However, the resolution also criticized Hamas, which governs Gaza, condemning all acts of terrorism.
The terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel in October 2023 prompted ongoing Israeli retaliation.
Despite halting the UN’s and related organizations’ access to Gaza for providing food and medical supplies to civilians last month, Israel began channeling aid through a new organization, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.
UN and other agencies have denounced this move as inadequate, warning that Gaza is on the brink of mass starvation.
Harish reaffirmed India’s support for a Two-State Solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, advocating for the establishment of an independent State of Palestine, "coexisting peacefully alongside Israel."
In May of the previous year, India endorsed a General Assembly resolution advocating for full UN membership for Palestine, effectively granting it international recognition as a nation.
Even though India abstained on Thursday's resolution, Harish stated: "We advocate for a safe, sustained, and timely supply of humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza."
India has also extended humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, both bilaterally and through the United Nations, he added.
Additionally, he emphasized, "We believe that the release of remaining hostages (held by Hamas) and a ceasefire are vital to improving the humanitarian situation in Gaza."
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize India's ongoing commitment to a diplomatic resolution in the Israel-Palestine conflict. The nation's abstention reflects a nuanced approach, focusing on dialogue rather than division. India's stance on humanitarian issues emphasizes its supportive role in fostering peace and stability in the region.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did India abstain from the UNGA resolution?
India abstained due to its belief that conflicts should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, aiming to bring both sides in the Gaza conflict closer together.
What was the outcome of the UNGA resolution?
The resolution was adopted with 149 votes in favor, while 12 countries, including the United States, voted against it, and 19 countries, including India, abstained.
What is India's stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict?
India supports a Two-State Solution, advocating for an independent State of Palestine that lives peacefully alongside Israel.
How has India provided humanitarian aid to Gaza?
India has provided humanitarian assistance to Gaza both bilaterally and through the United Nations.
What are the implications of India's abstention?
India's abstention reflects its commitment to diplomacy and dialogue in resolving international conflicts, while also advocating for humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
