Aiding Palestine But We Have Zero Tolerance Towards Terrorism: India

NEW DELHI (ANI) – Following Israel’s accusation of UNRWA staff being involved in the October 7 Hamas attack, Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on February 1, said that India has been extending assistance to Palestine both bilaterally and through the United Nations, adding that, at the same time, it has zero tolerance towards terrorism.

He further expressed concern at the allegations imposed by Israel on United Nations Relief and Works Agency staff members for being involved in the Hamas terror attacks.

The allegations assert that 13 UNRWA employees were associated with the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, with varying levels of involvement, according to information shared by an Israeli official. The Israeli claims suggest that these employees participated in activities ranging from kidnapping hostages to setting up an operation room.

“On UNRWA, India is an important development partner of Palestine, and we have been extending assistance to them both bilaterally and through the United Nations. but at the same time, we have a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism, and in this regard, we are deeply concerned at the allegations that the UNRWA staff were involved in the October 7 terror attacks,” he said.

He said India welcomes investigations launched by the United Nations in this matter.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the severity of the allegations and assured swift action, with an ongoing investigation and an independent review in progress.

Despite the serious allegations, he urged countries to continue financial assistance to UNRWA, emphasizing the vital support it provides to 2 million Gazans for their daily survival.