India, 18 others abstain; 149 back UN resolution for Gaza ceasefire

A UN general assembly (UNGA) resolution seeking an immediate, unconditional and lasting ceasefire in Gaza was adopted with overwhelming support, as 149 countries voted in favour.

India was among the 19 that abstained, even as key American allies like the UK, Australia and Japan voted in favour.The US, Israel and 10 other countries voted against. A similar resolution for a permanent Gaza ceasefire in the security council last week was vetoed by the US. Since Hamas' terrorist strikes on Israel on October 7, 2023 and the subsequent Israeli action leading to the present situation, India had twice voted in favour of UNGA Gaza ceasefire resolutions - first in December 2023 and again in the same month a year later for immediate and permanent ceasefire.The development comes just over a month after India's military conflict with Pakistan, which again underscored the significance of Israel for Indian defence. India used Israeli drones to strike deep inside Pakistan and used its air defence systems to repel retaliatory strikes.