A UN general assembly (UNGA) resolution seeking an immediate, unconditional and lasting ceasefire in Gaza was adopted with overwhelming support, as 149 countries voted in favour. India was among the 19 that abstained, even as key American allies like the UK, Australia and Japan voted in favour.The US, Israel and 10 other countries voted against. A similar resolution for a permanent Gaza ceasefire in the security council last week was vetoed by the US. Since Hamas’ terrorist strikes on Israel on October 7, 2023 and the subsequent Israeli action leading to the present situation, India had twice voted in favour of UNGA Gaza ceasefire resolutions – first in December 2023 and again in the same month a year later for immediate and permanent ceasefire.The development comes just over a month after India’s military conflict with Pakistan, which again underscored the significance of Israel for Indian defence. India used Israeli drones to strike deep inside Pakistan and used its air defence systems to repel retaliatory strikes.‘Continuing argumentation & accusations hinder peace’Explaining India’s decision to abstain during a UNGA vote on a resolution seeking immediate, unconditional and lasting ceasefire in Gaza, India’s permanent representative to UN, Indian ambassador P Harish, however, said it was in line with its abstention earlier on two other resolutions — one in 2022 that referred “violation by Israel of the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination” to the International Court of Justice and another in 2024 asking Israel to abide by UN Charter and endorsing the work of UNRWA that was banned by Israel.Harish said India is deeply concerned at the deepening humanitarian crisis and condemned the loss of civilian lives. He also reiterated India’s position that it has always been on the side of peace and humanity and backed sustained and timely humanitarian assistance for Gaza.Expressing support for a negotiated two-state solution, the Indian ambassador said there’s a need to work towards creating conditions for early resumption of direct peace negotiations. “We hope this August assembly will send a clear message to expand the prospect for dialogue and diplomacy towards restoration of peace and bringing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza to an end,” said Harish.Harish said India’s abstention was in the belief that there is no other way to resolve conflicts, but through dialogue and diplomacy. “Our joint effort should be directed towards bringing the two sides closer,” he said.He also said that release of remaining hostages and a ceasefire are important to ameliorate the humanitarian situation in Gaza. “Our collective voice should echo this,” said the Indian diplomat. “India’s abiding commitment to dialogue and diplomacy is well known and we firmly believe this is the only way forward. Continuing argumentation and accusations hinder the path to peace,” he said.
