India has announced a $2.5 million contribution to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), reaffirming its commitment to supporting Palestinian refugees amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The contribution represents the first tranche of India’s annual assistance package of $5 million to the agency.
Speaking at the United Nations Security Council, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Harish Parvathaneni, reiterated India’s long-standing support for a two-state solution as the only viable path to achieving lasting peace between Israel and Palestine. India emphasized the need for a sovereign and independent State of Palestine living peacefully alongside Israel within secure and recognized borders.
The financial assistance will support UNRWA’s efforts in providing essential services, including education, healthcare, social welfare, and emergency humanitarian relief to Palestinian refugees. India has consistently backed Palestinian development and significantly increased its annual contribution to UNRWA from $1.25 million to $5 million following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Palestine in 2018.
India also expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire, unhindered humanitarian access, protection of civilians, and the revival of meaningful peace negotiations. The country reiterated its belief that dialogue and diplomacy remain the most effective means of resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict.
The announcement highlights India’s balanced approach in the Middle East, maintaining strong relations with both Israel and Palestine while advocating peace, stability, and humanitarian support in the region.
