India’s absence in UNGA resolution on Palestinian Occupation reflects ‘cowardice’

India has abstained from voting on a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution calling for Israel to end its illegal occupation of Palestinian territories. Israel has been facing growing international criticism sparking discussions about India’s shifting stance on the Palestinian issue.

The resolution, introduced by Palestine for the first time in UN history, received support from 124 countries, with only 14 voting against it and 43 abstaining, including India. The resolution demands that Israel withdraw its military forces from occupied territories and cease all new settlement activities within 12 months.

India’s abstention marks a departure from the positions of other BRICS nations and the broader Global South, which have generally supported Palestinian sovereignty.

Historically, India has been a strong advocate for Palestinian independence, having recognized it in 1988, driven by its own experiences with colonialism. However, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, relations with Israel have significantly strengthened, complicating India’s traditional stance. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu considers Modi a close ally, and their relationship has flourished since Modi’s groundbreaking visit to Israel in 2017.

Critics argue that this newfound camaraderie has led India to prioritize political alliances over its long-standing principles of supporting oppressed nations, particularly Palestine. The abstention has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, with observers noting that it reflects a broader trend of India aligning itself with Israel for political gain.