India has expressed deep shock at the loss of lives in Northern Gaza during the delivery of humanitarian assistance.
An official statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday (Mar 1, 2024) stated: “We are deeply shocked at the loss of lives in Northern Gaza yesterday during the delivery of humanitarian assistance.”
Adding, “Such loss of civilian lives and the larger humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to be a cause for extreme concern. We reiterate our call for safe and timely delivery of humanitarian aid and assistance.”
During the weekly briefing on Thursday (Feb 29, 2024), responding to a question whether aid sent by India has reached the people, the official spokesperson of MEA Randhir Jaiswal said: “Regarding humanitarian assistance, this is an important part of our engagement with the Palestinian people. Over the years, we have provided humanitarian assistance through UNRWA and also bilaterally. So, that is where it is. We will continue to provide assistance.” However, whether it has reached the Palestinian people, there was no clarity.
India pushes for a two-state solution
Last month at the Munich Security Conference, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated India’s long standing stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict during the Munich Security Conference. He emphasized the importance of a two-state solution, noting that an increasing number of countries now view it as more urgent than ever before. However, the recent attacks on Israeli cities by Hamas were unequivocally condemned as acts of terrorism, underscoring Israel’s obligation to minimize civilian casualties.
He made the remarks at an interactive session at a security conference in Munich in the presence of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.
In response to the escalating conflict, Jaishankar outlined India’s position, stressing the condemnation of terrorism and the imperative for Israel to abide by humanitarian law. He emphasized the urgency of addressing the root causes of the conflict and the critical need for immediate relief efforts to alleviate the suffering of civilians affected by the violence.
India has been actively involved in providing humanitarian assistance to Gaza through organizations such as UNRWA. Jaishankar highlighted India’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian people in their pursuit of statehood and self-determination. However, concerns persist regarding the effective distribution of aid to those in need amidst the ongoing hostilities.
During the NAM summit in Uganda in January this year, Jaishankar highlighted the importance of preventing the escalation of violence in the region and called on all parties to exercise restraint.
This sentiment was echoed by the MEA spokesperson, who reiterated India’s support for initiatives aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.
India’s response to the Israel-Palestine conflict underscores the need for dialogue, diplomacy, and adherence to international law. As the situation continues to evolve, India remains committed to supporting efforts towards a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and dignity of all parties involved.
As a responsible member of the international community, India continues to advocate for a peaceful resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict and stands ready to support efforts aimed at alleviating the suffering of civilians affected by the violence.