India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, addressed the UN Security Council Open Debate on the Situation in the Middle East, offering a clear and comprehensive view of India’s position following the recent peace developments.
Support for the Gaza Peace Agreement
India extended a warm welcome to the landmark Gaza Peace Agreement, signed earlier this month at the Sharm el-Sheikh summit on October 13. Harish praised the diplomatic efforts led by the United States, specifically appreciating President Donald Trump‘s “instrumental role” in forging the accord, alongside Egypt and Qatar. India hopes this “positive diplomatic momentum” will lead to enduring peace.
Commitment to Dialogue and the Two-State Solution
The core of India’s policy was reaffirmed:
- Dialogue and Diplomacy: India stressed that dialogue and diplomacy, not unilateral actions, are the “only sustainable routes to peace.”
- Two-State Solution: New Delhi reiterated its long-standing support for a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine, living peacefully alongside Israel within secure and recognized borders. India first recognized the State of Palestine in 1988 and views the two-state solution as the “only realistic way forward.”
Humanitarian Aid and Consistent Stance on the Conflict
India’s humanitarian and political stance remains rooted in its position since the conflict escalated in October 2023:
- Condemnation and Calls for Action: India has consistently condemned terrorism, called for an end to civilian suffering, demanded the immediate release of hostages, and stressed the need for unimpeded humanitarian aid into Gaza.
- Developmental Partnership: India’s total support to the Palestinian people now exceeds $170 million, with $40 million worth of projects currently underway. This includes the supply of 135 metric tons of medicines and relief materials over the past two years.
Regional Engagements
Harish also addressed other regional situations:
- Syria: India emphasized that humanitarian challenges must be a priority, noting a recent supply of five metric tons of essential medicines in July 2025. India supports a Syrian-led political process and welcomed the normalization of Syria’s ties with its Arab neighbors.
- Peacekeeping and Yemen: India is the second-largest contributor to UNIFIL and the third-largest to UNDOF, where Harish paid tribute to Acting Force Commander Brigadier General Amitabh Jha, who lost his life in December 2024. Regarding Yemen, he called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and stressed that humanitarian assistance must be “above politics.”
In conclusion, India’s message was one of hope for a stable and peaceful Middle East, emphasizing that the cessation of conflict and the dignity of all human beings are paramount.
