In a recent emergency session, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed a resolution titled ‘Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations,’ urging an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. India stood in support of the ceasefire resolution, along with 153 other nations, while 10 countries, including the US, Israel, and Austria, voted against it. Additionally, 23 nations, including Argentina, Ukraine, and Germany, chose to abstain from voting.
The resolution demands an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire,” the unconditional release of hostages, and ensuring humanitarian access. It further emphasizes compliance with international law, including humanitarian law, for the protection of civilians. Ruchira Kamboj, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, highlighted the terrorist attack in Israel on October 7 and the ensuing humanitarian crisis, especially the loss of civilian lives, particularly women and children.
Kamboj stated, “India has voted in favour of the resolution just adopted by the General Assembly. The situation has many dimensions, including the terrorist attack in Israel, the humanitarian crisis, and the imperative to observe international humanitarian law. India welcomes the unity of the international community in addressing the multiple challenges in the region.”
However, the US-led amendment to the resolution and an amendment by Austria both faced defeat at the UN General Assembly. Israel’s Permanent Representative, Gilad Erdan, criticized the resolution for not condemning Hamas and argued that it would prolong the conflict. Erdan emphasized the need to hold Hamas accountable, stating, “A ceasefire means only one thing – the survival of Hamas.”
In response, Munir Akram, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, expressed deep regret over amendments that singled out one side, calling it a “war against the Palestinian people.” Akram accused Israel of seeking to erase the idea of Palestine, likening its campaign to historical campaigns of racial slaughter by settler colonial regimes.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, now in its third month, has led to increasing concerns about deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Israel has declared its intention to continue its military campaign until Hamas is dismantled, a move contested by those advocating for a peaceful and lasting two-state solution to the Palestine question. The international community remains divided on the best approach to address the complex and challenging situation in the region.
