Jun 24, 2023
India’s Unwavering Stance on Israel-Palestine Issue: A Definitive Explanation of Vote
On October 27, the UN General Assembly held an Extraordinary Special Session to address the Israel-Palestine issue. India was one of the 45 countries which had abstained itself from voting on the Jordan proposal due to absence of direct condemnation of the Oct 7thterror attack. In its explanation vote, it restated its stance on the 7/10 attack, humanitarian support for Gaza, and two state solutions & mentioned hostages’ release.
The Resolution that was passed on Fridaysupported a sustainable and lasting humanitarian ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Why did India choose to abstain?
According to sources, “Our vote on the Resolution was consistent with our long-standing position. In our Explanation of Vote (EOV), we reaffirmed our stance comprehensively.”
The EOV left no room for ambiguity on the matter of terror. It explicitly condemned the shocking terror attacks in Israel on October 7 and expressed concern for the hostages. “We called for their immediate and unconditional release,” sources quoted above stated.
Additionally, the EOV highlighted India’s deep concern regarding the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The casualties, especially among women and children, were a significant and ongoing worry.
India has stressed the need for all parties to act responsibly to avoid worsening the humanitarian crisis. “We appreciated international efforts for de-escalation and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, noting India’s contribution. And stressed the need for all parties to act responsibly to avoid worsening the humanitarian crisis.”
“Our EOV also emphasized our unwavering support for a negotiated Two-State solution to the Israel-Palestine issue. This solution would lead to the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine living within secure and recognized borders, coexisting peacefully with Israel.”
India has urged both parties to de-escalate, refrain from violence, and create conditions conducive to the resumption of direct peace negotiations.
During the UNGA session, an amendment was proposed to explicitly condemn the terrorist attacks of October 7, but it did not secure the required two-thirds majority, despite receiving 88 votes in favour.
“Given that the final Resolution did not encompass all elements of our approach, we chose to abstain from voting on its adoption,” sources explained.
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