Washington - India's permanent representative to the United Nations, Ruchira Kamboj, underscored India's enduring alliance with the Palestinian people during her address to the United Nations General Assembly on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. Emphasizing India's unwavering commitment to a negotiated two-state solution, Kamboj reiterated the nation's zero-tolerance stance on terrorism.

Kamboj stated, "Our profound and historical ties with the Palestinian people, rooted in both history and people-to-people connections, persist alongside our consistent support for their pursuit of statehood, peace, and prosperity." Affirming India's principled opposition to terrorism, she asserted, "India maintains a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, underscoring the universal obligation to adhere to international humanitarian law."

Expressing condemnation for civilian casualties, Kamboj emphasized the unacceptability of innocent deaths, urging all parties to demonstrate the utmost responsibility. Calling for collective international efforts to de-escalate the situation, she condemned acts of terrorism.

Reiterating India's stance on the Israel-Palestine issue, Kamboj asserted, "India has consistently advocated for a negotiated two-state solution, culminating in the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state. This state should coexist peacefully with Israel within secure and recognized borders." She reaffirmed India's commitment to a just, peaceful, and enduring resolution to the conflict.

Kamboj highlighted India's response to the October 7 attacks and expressed concern for the hostages' safety. She condemned the attacks, stressing that terrorism and hostage-taking have no justification. She called for the immediate and unconditional release of remaining hostages.

Detailing India's humanitarian assistance, Kamboj mentioned the dispatch of 70 tonnes of aid, including 16.5 tonnes of medical supplies. She noted that Foreign Minister S Jaishankar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have engaged with regional leaders. Kamboj assured continued support to the Palestinian people through bilateral development partnerships covering health, education, women's empowerment, entrepreneurship, and information technology.