Amid Israel-Hamas war, India expresses concern over civilian casualties, humanitarian situation

The Union ministry of external affairs on Thursday said it is firm in its position in favour of a two-state solution amid the conflict over Palestine issue, however, condemned the horrific attack on Israel by Hamas, a declared militant group that administers the Gaza Strip situated in the east of Mediterranean Sea.

MEA spokeperson Arindam Bagchi, while addressing a press conference, said India is concerned over civilian casualties and the humanitarian situation amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, urging the international community to stand together in combating terrorism in all its forms.

Responding to the attack on the al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza, which claimed around 470 lives, the spokesperson urged for a strict observance of international humanitarian law.

Bagchi also said that India has been supporting Palestine and its refugees through significant contribution to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency. “A total of $29.583 million has been contributed between 2002-2023. The Indian annual contribution has also increased from $1.25 million to $5 million in 2018. We have pledged this annual contribution of $5 million for the next two years.”

Updating on the ‘Operation Ajay’, a government initiative to bring Indians from war-torn Israel, Bagchi said at least 1,200 people, including 18 Nepalis, have been evacuated in five flights. However, he refrained from speculating if anyone was brought back from Gaza Strip or West Bank regions.