India Votes in favor of UNGA Draft Resolution Demanding Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza

December 13, 2023

GS Paper II International Relations

Context: India votes in favor of the demand of an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict in a draft resolution introduced at the UN General Assembly.

UN Resolution on Ceasefire in Gaza

The resolution on ceasefire in Gaza was adopted with 153 votes in favor, while 23 nations abstained and 10 voted against the text.

In October 2023, India had abstained in the General Assembly on a resolution that had called for an immediate humanitarian truce in the Israel-Hamas conflict and unhindered humanitarian access in the Gaza strip.

Key Features of the Draft Resolution on ceasefire in Gaza

Introduced By: Egypt, at an Emergency Special Session of UNGA.
Demanded:
- An immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza
- All parties comply with their obligations under international law, “notably with regard to the protection of civilians.”
- Immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, as well as ensuring humanitarian access.

About United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)

UNGA is the main policy-making organ of the Organization.
Role:
- It provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the United Nations Charter.
- It discusses specific issues through dedicated agenda items or sub-items, which lead to the adoption of resolutions.
Member states: 193 States having equal vote.
Functions:
- appointing the Secretary-General on the recommendation of the Security Council
- electing the non-permanent members of the Security Council
- approving the UN budget

About Israel-Hamas Conflict

Hamas (Palestinian politically armed group operating in Gaza strip) launched the present offensive (7 october 2023) against Israel in their long standing Israel- Palestine conflict.
Israel declared a ‘State of War’ and in response launched ‘operation Iron Swords’ against Hamas operation Al- Aqsa flood.

For More Information on: Israel-Hamas Conflict

News source: Economic Times