Washington: India has urged for an “immediate de-escalation and eschewing of violence” in Gaza, echoing a broader call for a ceasefire at the UN, although without explicitly mentioning it, which is met with opposition from Israel.
During the UN General Assembly session on Monday, India’s Permanent Representative Ruchira Kamboj stressed the need for swift action to achieve a lasting solution. She called for the release of hostages, avoidance of provocative actions, and the creation of conditions for peace negotiations to resume.
While condemning civilian casualties, Kamboj highlighted the terror attacks in Israel on October 7 as the immediate trigger for the conflict, underscoring India’s staunch position against terrorism in all forms.
Regarding the significant civilian toll, she emphasized the importance of preventing further escalation and respecting international humanitarian law to safeguard civilian lives.
According to the Gaza health ministry, over 30,000 people, including many children and women, have been killed since Israel’s retaliatory attacks following Hamas strikes that resulted in over 1,200 deaths and the hostage-taking of more than 190 individuals, including children.