India Expresses Concern Over Rising Tensions In Jerusalem

UNITED NATIONS: India has expressed deep concern over the rising tensions in Arab-dominated East Jerusalem, stressing the need for restraint and avoidance of provocation, as it hoped that Israel and Palestine will demonstrate necessary political will to resume dialogue.

"We are deeply concerned about rising tensions in East Jerusalem. The imperative need is for urgent de-escalation, for restraint, for avoidance of provocation and for a return to the peace process. Diplomacy and statesmanship have to prevail over hatred and violence; there is no other road to a lasting peace," Permanent Representative of India to the UN Asoke Mukerji said in a UN General Assembly session yesterday.

Marking the International day of solidarity with the Palestinian People, Mukerji reiterated India's "unwavering support" for the cause of Palestine and solidarity with the Palestinian people for their struggle. Mukerji also extended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's support and solidarity for the Palestinian cause. He said India firmly believes that dialogue is the "only viable option" for a durable, comprehensive and peaceful solution to the Palestinian issue. "We hope that both sides will demonstrate the necessary political will to return to the negotiating table and resume dialogue," he said, adding that India supports a negotiated solution, resulting in a sovereign, independent, viable and united State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital, living within secure and recognized borders, side by side and at peace with Israel.

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