New Delhi: India expressed its concern over the chain of events at the holy places in Jerusalem during the ongoing month of Ramzan. India said that the historical status quo of such sites should be respected and maintained.
Addressing an open debate at the UN Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, India’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, R Ravindra said, “All acts of obstruction, vandalism, desecration, which violate the sanctity of holy places.” Whether it is in Jerusalem, Nablus or elsewhere, must be explicitly condemned. We recognize the efforts made by Israel, Jordan, the Palestinian Authority and other countries to contain the escalation.
The envoy also reaffirmed India’s “unwavering commitment” to the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine living within recognized borders, securely and peacefully with Israel. “There is no other alternative to the two-state solution than through dialogue,” he said.
Ravindra also conveyed India’s concern regarding incidents of terrorism and violence in Israel and the West Bank. “The recent rocket attack from Gaza and retaliatory strikes by Israel show the fragility and potential escalation of the situation,” he said.
“We recognize the efforts made by Israel, Jordan, the Palestinian Authority and other countries to contain the escalation,” the ambassador said.
Ravindra said that it is unfortunate that despite these efforts, the ground situation has deteriorated again, while appealing to all stakeholders to stop provocations and provocations which may worsen the situation. We support all steps aimed at restoring peace.
first published:April 26, 2022, 12:29 p.m.
