Fri Jun 13 12:16:29 UTC 2025: **Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:**

**Summary:**

India abstained from a UN General Assembly resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, marking a shift from its vote in favor of a ceasefire just six months ago. This decision reflects a trend in the Modi government’s policy of avoiding votes critical of Israel’s actions. The move comes as External Affairs Minister Jaishankar is in Paris for talks, with France potentially seeking India’s participation in a UN conference on a two-state solution, a conference the US is reportedly discouraging participation in. India, while having recognized Palestine in 1988, explained its abstention by emphasizing dialogue and diplomacy as the only way to resolve the conflict. The resolution, which passed overwhelmingly, calls for immediate humanitarian access to Gaza. The US criticized the resolution for not specifically condemning Hamas. Attention now turns to the upcoming French-Saudi conference focused on implementing a two-state solution.

**News Article:**

**India Abstains from UN Gaza Ceasefire Vote, Signaling Policy Shift**

**New Delhi – June 13, 2025** – India abstained from a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, raising eyebrows and sparking debate about a potential shift in the Modi government’s approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The resolution, which passed overwhelmingly with 149 votes in favor, 12 against and 19 abstentions, called for an end to hostilities and unimpeded humanitarian aid access to the war-torn region.

This marks the fourth time in three years India has abstained on a similar resolution, a notable departure from December 2024 when India voted in favour of a ceasefire. Indian officials explained the decision as a continuation of past votes, emphasizing the need for dialogue and diplomacy as the only path to resolution.

“Our vote today is in continuation of [these votes], in the belief that there is no other way to resolve conflicts but through dialogue and diplomacy. Our joint effort should be directed towards bringing the two sides closer,” stated India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Paravathaneni Harish.

The abstention comes as External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is in Paris for bilateral talks, with potential discussions around India’s participation in a forthcoming French-Saudi conference focused on implementing a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. Sources indicate India has not yet confirmed its participation. This conference is scheduled for June 17-20.

Adding to the diplomatic complexities, reports suggest the US Trump administration has cautioned partner countries against participating in the conference or offering recognition to Palestine. Despite this pressure, India recognized Palestine in 1988 and remains among the majority of UN member states that recognize the Palestinian state.

The passed UNGA resolution calls on Israel and Hamas to comply with international law and ensure the delivery of vital humanitarian assistance to Gaza. According to a concept note from France and Saudi Arabia, the conference will also feature eight thematic roundtables with working groups on security arrangements for both Israelis and Palestinians, the economic viability of a Palestinian State, and humanitarian action and reconstruction.

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