UNGA Adopted Gaza Resolution, India Abstained from Voting

India abstained from voting in the UN General Assembly for a resolution titled 'Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations', which Jordan drafted. 

• The resolution urged for an immediate humanitarian truce on the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and for unhindered humanitarian access in the Gaza Strip.

About Jordanian-drafted Resolution

• The resolution was drafted by Jordan and co-sponsored by over 40 countries, including Bangladesh, Maldives, Pakistan, Russia and South Africa. 
• The Jordanian-created resolution neglected to mention the militant group Hamas, which led to the US expressing outrage at the "omission of evil". 
• The 193-member General Assembly adopted the resolution, which called for an immediate, long-lasting and consistent humanitarian truce that would result in a cessation of hostilities. 
• The resolution received 120 votes in favour, 45 abstentions (including India), and 14 member states voted against it. The resolution also demanded the immediate, continuous, sufficient and unrestricted provision of vital goods and services to civilians throughout the Gaza Strip.

India’s Stand

• India described terrorism as a "malignancy" that knows no borders, nationality, or race. It abstained from a resolution on the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Amendment by Canada

• During a recent resolution meeting, Canada proposed an amendment to add a paragraph. The proposed paragraph would state that the general Assembly of the meeting condemns the terrorist attacks by Hamas in Israel that began on 7 October 2023. 
• The paragraph demands the safety, well-being, and humane treatment of the hostages in line with international law. It also calls for the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages. 
• During the voting process, India and 87 other nations voted in favour of the amendment, while 55 member states opposed it, and 23 abstained. 
• Despite the majority in favour, the draft amendment failed to be adopted as it did not obtain a two-thirds majority of members present and voting.

Israel Hamas War has been going on since 7th October when Hamas attacked Israel.

About the UN General Assembly (UNGA)

The UN General Assembly is the primary policy making body of the United Nations. It brings together all member states and serves as a platform for discussing various international issues outlined in the UN Charter. 

Every one of the 193 member states has an equal say in the decision-making process.

The UNGA makes key decisions including:

• Appointment of the Secretary-General on the recommendation of the Security Council
• Election of the non-permanent members of the Security Council
• Approve the UN budget

The Assembly convenes annually from September to December and, as needed, to address specific issues through agenda items or sub-items, leading to the adoption of resolutions.

• Permanent Members: China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
• Non Permanent Members: Ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms by the General Assembly.