Mint Explainer: India abstains from UN vote on Israel-Gaza conflict. Why?
India recently chose to abstain from a UN General Assembly vote that sought a humanitarian truce and the protection of civilians amid the intensifying conflict between Israel and Gaza, drawing significant domestic scrutiny. Here's a breakdown of India's decision and its implications - The UN General Assembly's resolution called for an “immediate, durable and sustained humanitarian truce leading to a cessation of hostilities", especially given that the death toll in Gaza has reportedly surpassed 8,000, due to Israel's ongoing airstrike campaign. The conflict escalated following Hamas' attacks in Israel on 7 October, leading Israel to launch a ground offensive into Gaza.
The resolution also emphasized adherence to international humanitarian laws and the protection of civilians, along with the release of hostages. Notably, a Canadian amendment condemning Hamas for its attacks failed to secure approval. Of the nations that participated, 120, including major powers such as France, China, and Russia, supported the resolution.
Forty five countries, including India, Japan, and Germany, abstained. Only 14 nations, which included the US, the UK, Canada, and Israel, voted against. India, however, did endorse Canada's unsuccessful amendment, condemning Hamas, with support from countries like the US, UK, France, and Germany.
China opposed the Canadian amendment. “Terrorism is a malignancy and knows no borders, nationality, or race. The world should not buy into any justification of terror acts," Yojna Patel, India’s deputy permanent representative to the UN, said in the Explanation of Vote.
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