India Backs UN Resolution for Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict

New Delhi: In a significant move at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), India voted in favor of a draft resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The resolution tabled by Egypt received widespread support with 153 votes in favour, while 23 countries abstained and 10 voted against.

The UNGA resolution, sponsored by countries including Algeria, Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Palestine, stresses the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. It also reiterates the importance of adherence to international law by all parties, particularly with regard to the protection of civilians. The resolution calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and emphasizes the imperative to ensure humanitarian access.

Notably, the resolution did not explicitly name Hamas, and the United States proposed an amendment condemning “heinous terrorist attacks by Hamas.” India supported this amendment. This diplomatic stance represents a change from India’s abstention on a similar resolution in October, emphasizing the evolving dynamics of the conflict.

The UNGA vote followed the recent failure of the UN Security Council to adopt a resolution on the Israel–Hamas conflict due to a veto by the United States. The UNSC resolution, supported by more than 90 member states, received 13 votes in favor, while the United Kingdom abstained.

The conflict, which began with terrorist attacks on October 7, has left more than 1,200 people dead, including 33 children, while thousands have been injured. The UNGA’s call for a ceasefire reflects the global community’s recognition of the urgency to address the humanitarian crisis and end violence in the region.