India calls for Gaza ceasefire at UNSC, reiterates two-State solution

At the UN Security Council (UNSC), India's Permanent Representative, Parvathaneni Harish, declared a Gaza ceasefire a "must" and called for the release of all hostages, reaffirming India's "unwavering" support for the Palestinian cause. This statement marks a stronger stance compared to India's abstention on a similar UN General Assembly resolution a month prior. Harish highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with widespread damage to hospitals and lack of schooling for children. India reiterated its long-held position that a "two-State" solution is the only path to enduring peace between Israel and Palestine.

Key Points

  • India, at the UNSC, strongly advocated for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all hostages.
  • This position represents a notable shift from India's previous abstention on a UN General Assembly resolution calling for a ceasefire.
  • India's representative highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, including extensive damage to infrastructure and lack of access to essential services.
  • The statement reaffirmed India's consistent and "unwavering" support for the Palestinian cause.
  • India reiterated that a "two-State" solution remains the sole viable path to achieving lasting peace between Israel and Palestine.

Exam Facts

  • Parvathaneni Harish is India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
  • The statement was made during the UNSC's quarterly open debate on the 'Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question'.
  • Pakistan chaired the Security Council Presidency for July.
  • UN and WHO estimates cite 95% of Gaza hospitals damaged and 650,000 children without schooling.

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All current affairs of 25 July 2025