Fri Dec 06 16:52:55 UTC 2024: ## India Reiterates Support for Two-State Solution in Israel-Palestine Conflict, But Notes Israeli Concerns
**New Delhi** – India reaffirmed its commitment to a two-state solution in the Israel-Palestine conflict, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar stated in Parliament today. While reiterating support for a sovereign and independent Palestinian state, Jaishankar acknowledged the plight of Israeli hostages, emphasizing that their concerns cannot be ignored.
The Minister defended India’s strong defense partnership with Israel, highlighting its crucial role in supporting India’s national security, particularly during times of crisis. He underscored that India’s decisions would consider all major factors, including its own national security interests.
Responding to questions regarding India’s voting record on UN resolutions concerning Gaza, Jaishankar clarified that India supported 10 out of 13 resolutions related to Palestine brought before the UN General Assembly since the start of the recent conflict, abstaining on the remaining three.
He further addressed queries about the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants issued against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Chief Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Mohammed Deif, stating that India is not a member of the ICC.
The statement comes amidst a backdrop of longstanding defense ties between India and Israel. Reports indicate that India is a leading importer of Israeli defense equipment, with a 37% share of Israel’s total defense exports between 2019 and 2023. Furthermore, recent reports suggest that India has also provided defense materials to Israel during the current conflict. The exact nature and extent of this cooperation remain subject to ongoing discussion. The complex relationship between India’s commitment to a Palestinian state and its strong defense ties with Israel continues to be a point of focus in international affairs.
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