India Urges Immediate Ceasefire Amid Gaza Conflict

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar prioritizes the Gaza situation at the India-GCC Ministerial Meeting. Advocating for a ceasefire, he highlights India's condemnation of terrorism, the humanitarian crisis, and support for the two-state solution regarding the Palestinian issue. India's trade with GCC countries reached USD 184.46 billion in 2022-23.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has declared the ongoing conflict in Gaza as India's 'foremost concern,' advocating for an immediate ceasefire. Speaking at the first India-GCC Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue in Saudi Arabia, Jaishankar emphasized India's principled stance against terrorism and the humanitarian crisis.

'The current situation in Gaza is now understandably our foremost concern. India's position in this regard has been principled and consistent. While we condemn acts of terrorism and hostage taking, we are deeply pained by the continuing death of innocent civilians,' Jaishankar said.

India has long supported a two-state solution to the Palestinian issue and has contributed to Palestinian institution-building. 'Where the humanitarian situation is concerned, we have provided relief and increased our support to UNRWA,' he added. The GCC, an influential group comprising the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait, saw a trade volume with India of USD 184.46 billion in the last financial year.

(With inputs from agencies.)