Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reiterated India’s support for Palestine and expressed deep concern over the security and humanitarian situation amid the ongoing conflict.
In a letter, written to mark the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, on November 26, PM Modi has reiterated India’s continued support for the development of the people of Palestine.
He also called for an immediate ceasefire and release of hostages, and also an end to acts of terrorism.
“India calls for an immediate ceasefire, an end to all acts of terrorism, the release of hostages and the sustained delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine,” PM’s letter says.
Noting that the ongoing conflict has resulted in tragic loss of lives and caused immense suffering for the people of Palestine and the broader West Asian region, PM wrote, “India remains deeply concerned at the current security and humanitarian situation.”
India firmly believes that dialogue and diplomacy are the keys to a lasting and peaceful solution, he says, once again “supporting a negotiated two-state solution, leading to the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace with Israel”.
Notably, since the start of the conflict in October 2023, India has condemned terrorism – pointing to Hamas attacks on Israel – while also advocating a two-state solution.
Also committing India’s support as “a steadfast development partner”, PM Modi wrote, India will continue to stand with the people of Palestine in this journey, including through the implementation of people-centric projects in diverse sectors, based on their needs and priorities.
Responding to the message, Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer, chargé d’affaires, Embassy of Palestine, New Delhi, says, “We welcome and highly appreciate the message of the Indian Prime Minister.”
The message contained important contents, reaffirming India’s support for the establishment of a viable Palestinian state and a two-state solution through the diplomatic and political path that the Palestinian people are striving to achieve, he added.
Palestine also welcomes and supports Modi’s call for an immediate ceasefire to stop the Israeli war on Gaza, as well as India’s commitment to continue providing humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine, he said.
During his bilateral meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on the sidelines of the UNGA, in New York in September, Modi had expressed deep concerns at the unfolding crisis in Gaza, and also reiterated that only a two-state solution can deliver sustainable peace in this area.
Modi also referred to India’s historic support for Palestine in the United Nations, on the international stage, as well as the consistent and sustained humanitarian support to the Palestinian people.
