Palestine backs India’s UNSC bid, seeks New Delhi’s role in Gaza peace push

Palestine has expressed its support for India's bid to secure a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2028-29 term. During a media briefing at the Palestinian Embassy in New Delhi, Palestinian Ambassador Abdullah Mohammad Abu Shawesh stated that his country welcomes India's assistance in key infrastructure projects in the region.

Upon her arrival in Ramallah, Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin met with Indian officials, including Ministry of External Affairs Secretary Sripriya Ranganathan. During their discussions, Ranganathan emphasized India's commitment to the Palestinian people and the need for a two-state solution in the region. India has already pledged support for the construction of a new hospital in the West Bank, a vocational training center, and the provision of artificial limbs for Gaza's amputees.

Furthermore, talks are underway for the delivery of medical equipment, including dialysis machines, to Palestine via Jordan. Ranganathan's visit marks the first high-level Indian delegation to the affected Gaza region since the conflict erupted in October 2023. She underscored India's concerns over the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and called for unhindered delivery of essential aid to civilians.

The visit also highlights the challenges faced by Palestinians amid Israel's upcoming parliamentary elections and the Board of Peace's temporary approach to resolving the conflict.