Ambassador Ravindra began by condemning the October 7th terror attacks in Israel unequivocally, branding them as “shocking.” He underscored India’s unwavering solidarity with Israel during this challenging period when the nation grappled with these acts of terror.
During the address, maintaining its balance stand, India also expressed deep shock at the tragic loss of lives at the Al Hali hospital in Gaza, where hundreds of civilians have fallen victim, and thousands have been injured. The Ambassador extended India’s heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and offered prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.
Moreover, the deteriorating security situation and the heartbreaking loss of civilian lives in the ongoing conflict took center stage in Ambassador Ravindra’s address. He stressed the paramount importance of safeguarding civilians, with a particular emphasis on protecting the most vulnerable among them, women and children.
Responding to the crisis with urgency, during the address, Ambassador Ravindra also informed that India had taken immediate action to provide assistance to the Palestinian people. He added, India dispatched a substantial 38 tons of humanitarian aid, comprising crucial medicines and equipment, to extend a helping hand to those affected by the conflict.
Further, reiterating India’s enduring stance on the Israel-Palestine issue, Ambassador Ravindra fervently advocated for a two-state solution which envisions the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable state of Palestine coexisting peacefully with Israel. The proposal also emphasizes the importance of secure, internationally recognized borders while taking into account Israel’s legitimate security concerns.
“India has always negotiated a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine issue, leading to the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine, living within secure and recognized borders, side by side in peace with Israel, taking into account the legitimate security concerns of Israel,” he said.
Further, highlighting India’s steadfast support for the Palestinian people, during the address Ambassador Ravindra underlined India’s robust bilateral development partnerships which span across critical sectors such as health, education, women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, and information technology.
He added, India was also supporting grassroot Palestinian institutions in their development initiatives.
Furthermore, in his concluding remarks, Ambassador Ravindra reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to providing humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine during these challenging times. He called upon all parties involved in the conflict to create the necessary conditions for the resumption of peace talks, emphasizing the pivotal role of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving the Israel-Gaza conflict.
