With the recent escalation of the Israel-Hamas conflict, the need for a comprehensive solution has become increasingly urgent.
The External Affairs Minister of India, S Jaishankar, addressed this issue at the Joint Secretary Session of the Senate’s External Affairs and Defence Commission in Rome.
He emphasized the importance of finding a balance between addressing terrorism and addressing the issue of Palestine, and reiterated India’s support for a ‘two-state’ solution.
Minister Jaishankar acknowledged that the acts of terrorism committed by Hamas are unacceptable and have had far-reaching consequences.
These acts have taken the entire region into a different direction, causing instability and a breakdown of cooperation
It is undeniable that terrorism poses a grave threat and must be condemned. However, it is equally important to recognize the issue faced by the Palestinian people and work towards finding a solution.
The Two-State Solution
India firmly supports a two-state solution as the way to resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict. Minister Jaishankar emphasized the need for dialogue and negotiation to achieve this solution.
Conflict and terrorism will only lead to more violence and further complicate the situation. It is imperative to find a peaceful resolution that respects humanitarian law and ensures the safety and sovereignty of both Israel and Palestine.
India has consistently advocated for a sovereign, independent, and viable state of Palestine that can coexist peacefully with Israel.
The resumption of direct negotiations between the two parties towards establishing this state has been a longstanding position of India.
This stand was reiterated following the October 7 attacks, in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned Hamas’s terror attack and expressed solidarity with Israel.
Israel’s Response and the Humanitarian Crisis
Israel responded to the terror attack by launching a strong counteroffensive targeting the terror units of Hamas.
The ongoing conflict has led to significant loss of life, with over 8000 people reported killed in the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip, according to the ministry in Gaza.
This has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with the region in desperate need of aid. Various rights groups have called for increased support and assistance to address the dire situation.
The Israel-Hamas conflict requires a comprehensive solution that addresses both the issue of terrorism and the need for a resolution to the longstanding Israel-Palestine conflict.
Dialogue, negotiation, and adherence to humanitarian law are key to achieving this solution. India strongly supports a two-state solution that ensures a sovereign, independent, and viable state of Palestine living peacefully side by side with Israel.
