India voted in favor of a United Nations General Assembly resolution renewing the mandate of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) for the next three years. The resolution, titled “Assistance to Palestine Refugees,” received overwhelming support with 151 countries in favor, 10 opposed, and 14 abstentions.

UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini welcomed the outcome, describing it as a reflection of “broad global solidarity with Palestine Refugees.” He emphasized that the vote highlights the international community’s responsibility to provide humanitarian support and ensure human development for refugees while a lasting solution to their decades-long plight remains unresolved.

The UN agency provides comprehensive services aimed at improving the lives of Palestine refugees. These include education, healthcare, social services, camp infrastructure development, microfinance programs, and emergency assistance. Lazzarini stressed that the resolution’s approval now needs to be matched with tangible resources to fulfill the agency’s mandate effectively.

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However, the resolution faced opposition from Israel and nine other countries, including the United States, Argentina, and Hungary. Israel has consistently criticized UNRWA, alleging that the organization has indirectly facilitated Hamas’s military activities. Recent claims by Israel suggested that two Hamas operatives had previously worked for UNRWA.

The vote underlines the geopolitical divisions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While the majority of the international community supports the humanitarian mission of UNRWA, opponents cite security concerns and allegations of misuse of agency resources. Despite these disagreements, the resolution ensures continued operational support for Palestine refugees for the next three years.

India’s support aligns with its long-standing foreign policy stance advocating humanitarian assistance and global cooperation in addressing refugee crises. By voting in favor, India reaffirmed its commitment to international solidarity and human development for displaced communities in conflict-affected regions.

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