India Reiterates Support for Gaza Ceasefire, Seeks to Assuage Gulf Concerns
Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on Monday reiterated the country's support for a ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing that any response to the conflict must take into account the principles of humanitarian law. In a meeting with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in Riyadh, Jaishankar condemned acts of terrorism but expressed deep pain over the ongoing death of innocent civilians in Gaza. He sought to assuage concerns in the Gulf about Israel's actions in Gaza, underlining that India's position has been principled and consistent in supporting a ceasefire and the release of hostages.
Key Takeaways:
- India has reiterated its support for a ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing the need for a two-State solution to the Palestinian issue.
- Foreign Minister S Jaishankar condemned acts of terrorism but expressed deep pain over the ongoing death of innocent civilians in Gaza.
- Jaishankar sought to assuage concerns in the Gulf about Israel's actions in Gaza, underlining that India's position has been principled and consistent in supporting a ceasefire and the release of hostages.
- India has committed to providing relief and increased support to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
- Jaishankar underscored the significance of India's ties with the Gulf region, highlighting the region's importance in contemporary geopolitics and global energy supply.
Statistics:
- India has condemned acts of terrorism in Gaza and expressed deep pain over the ongoing death of innocent civilians.
- The conflict in Gaza has continued for 12 months, with no signs of abatement.
- India has provided relief and increased support to UNRWA in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
- The Gulf region occupies a central place in contemporary geopolitics, with GCC being a cornerstone of global energy supply.
- India is one of the largest markets for energy supply, with significant bilateral trade and economic partnerships with GCC countries.
Sources:
- Times of India: "S Jaishankar seeks to assuage Gulf concerns on Israel-Gaza conflict" (no date)
- Press Release, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India: "India-GCC Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue" (no date)