India's 'long-standing' stance on Palestine unchanged: Foreign Secretary
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India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
New Delhi: India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri reaffirmed that the country’s long-standing position on Palestine remains unchanged after former US President Donald Trump proposed that the United States take control of Gaza and develop it into a luxury destination following the displacement of Palestinians.
Addressing the media on Friday, February 7, Misri responded to questions regarding India’s stance on Trump’s remarks, stating, “On the Gaza Strip, you are aware of what our stand is on the issue of Palestine. It’s a long-standing position. It has not changed.”
India has consistently advocated for a negotiated two-state solution, calling for the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state with secure and recognized borders, coexisting peacefully alongside Israel.
Trump’s proposal, which he reiterated during a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has drawn global attention and criticism. The former US president suggested that Gaza be transformed into a resort destination, calling it “the Riviera of the Middle East,” and proposed resettling Palestinians in Egypt and Jordan. He stated, “The US will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it too.” Netanyahu, who has previously opposed the two-state solution, responded that the idea was “worth paying attention to.”
The proposal has sparked strong reactions across the Middle East, with renewed calls for an independent Palestinian state. Egypt, one of the largest recipients of American aid, expressed support for rebuilding Gaza following the January 19 ceasefire but firmly opposed any forced displacement of Palestinians. Jordan’s King Abdullah, ahead of his scheduled meeting with Trump next week, dismissed any plan involving land annexation or Palestinian relocation.
Since the war in Gaza erupted in October 2023, the conflict has claimed the lives of more than 45,500 Palestinians, including a significant number of women and children. Palestinian sources estimate that Gaza’s population has declined by 6%, with approximately 100,000 people having left the enclave.