In a parliamentary reply on India’s stand on humanitarian assistance to Palestine, India has clarified its stand. The minister of state in the ministry of external affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh has responded to the questions on the details of financial, development and diplomatic assistance extended by India to Palestine over the last five years; and the diplomatic position adopted by India on the ongoing humanitarian crisis and alleged war crimes in Gaza

In a written reply, the minister of state reiterated the Indian government’s stand on supporting a negotiated two-state solution, towards the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine within secure and recognized borders, living side by side in peace with Israel. India also supports Palestine’s membership of the UN.

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While responding on the ongoing conflict, Minister Singh said, “India has strongly condemned the terror attacks on Israel on 7 October 2023 and also the loss of civilian lives in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. India remains concerned at the security situation and has called for a ceasefire, release of all hostages and peaceful resolution of conflict through dialogue and diplomacy”.

India emphasized the need for safe, timely and sustained delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine. India extends humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine both bilaterally and through United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

The MEAS has also provided information on the humanitarian assistance added, that since the beginning of the conflict, India has provided around 70 MT of humanitarian aid, including 16.5 MT of medicines and medical supplies in 2 tranches in October and November 2023.

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India has also sent 65 MT of medicines to UNRWA and Palestine Ministry of Health in October and November 2024.

Moreover, in the last five years, India has completed projects worth USD 26 million in Palestine. India supports capacity building and human resource development of Palestine through Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) and ICCR scholarships every year.

India has also contributed USD 27.5 million to UNRWA since 2020-21.