India announced a $2.5 million contribution to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) on Wednesday, while reiterating its longstanding position that a two-state solution is the only viable path to end the Israel-Palestine conflict.
India's Commitment to UNRWA
Addressing the UN Security Council, India's ambassador Harish Parvathaneni stated that the situation in Gaza remains dire and requires immediate global attention. He confirmed that India will hand over the first tranche of its annual $5 million contribution to UNRWA in the coming days. India has steadily increased its support to UNRWA over the years, raising its annual contribution from $1.25 million to $5 million starting in 2018-19. This decision came during a financial crisis that threatened the agency's ability to deliver essential services to Palestinian refugees across the region.
Enhanced Engagement with Palestine
The enhanced engagement with Palestine follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic visit to Palestine in February 2018, marking a new phase in bilateral ties. Parvathaneni reaffirmed India's support for a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine existing peacefully alongside Israel within secure and recognized borders.
Call for Fresh Approaches
The ambassador noted that many existing mediation frameworks on Palestine are outdated and no longer relevant. He emphasized that today's Gaza Peace Plan and the Board of Peace framework are distinct from earlier frameworks, calling for fresh approaches that reflect current realities. He stressed that any peace effort must prioritize human suffering, particularly the protection of women and children who bear the heaviest toll in conflicts.
Ceasefire and Humanitarian Access
Parvathaneni also called for a sustained ceasefire in Gaza and full humanitarian access to the region, underscoring the urgent need to alleviate the suffering of civilians.
