Asaduddin Owaisi, the president of AIMIM, has called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take immediate action to facilitate the establishment of a humanitarian corridor in Gaza. This corridor would serve as a lifeline for the people in Gaza, providing much-needed relief and a ceasefire during the ongoing conflict. Owaisi's plea came after he addressed a public gathering at the AIMIM headquarters, denouncing the reported atrocities committed by Israel in Palestine.
Appeal amidst ongoing Gaza conflict
The conflict between Israel and Palestine escalated when the Palestinian militant group Hamas initiated a barrage of rocket attacks on Southern Israel on October 7. In response, the Israel Defense Forces carried out retaliatory strikes.
Urgent need for humanitarian assistance
Expressing concern over the dire situation in Gaza, Owaisi emphasised the critical need for a ceasefire and the establishment of a humanitarian corridor. He cited the shortage of essential supplies like electricity, oxygen, and medical equipment in Gaza, highlighting that approximately 50,000 pregnant women are among those in urgent need of assistance.
Strong condemnation of Gaza situation
Owaisi did not mince words when he characterised Israel's actions in Gaza as "genocide." He called upon Prime Minister Modi to leverage his role as the head of the G20 to broker a ceasefire and open a humanitarian corridor, ultimately saving lives and providing relief to the Palestinian people.
Resolutions passed in support of Palestine
During the protest meeting, several resolutions were passed in solidarity with the Palestinian people. These resolutions included condemning attempts by some Indian state governments to discourage or criminalise protests against Israeli actions in Gaza. Furthermore, they expressed support for the Palestinian struggle to end the occupation of their lands.
Call for adherence to international law
One of the resolutions stressed the importance of Israel adhering to international law, UN resolutions, and the Oslo Accords of 1992-93. It urged Israel to end its occupation of the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, Jerusalem, and all territories occupied since 1967. The resolution emphasised the necessity of allowing the formation of a free and sovereign Palestinian state.
India's legacy of support for Palestine
Another resolution reminded the government of India of Mahatma Gandhi's words, asserting that "Palestine belongs to the Palestinians." It called on India to uphold its legacy of supporting those affected by apartheid and colonialism, just as it did in South Africa, Indonesia, and Palestine.
India's aid to Palestine
In response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, India took action by sending over 38 tonnes of relief materials, including medicines and medical equipment, to the people of Palestine. This effort reflects the global concern for the well-being of civilians living in Gaza amidst the ongoing conflict.
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