India backs UN statement condemning Israel’s West Bank actions

India on late Wednesday joined more than 100 countries and international organisations in condemning Israel over what they described as continued efforts to consolidate control over the West Bank, endorsing a joint statement at the United Nations that said such actions violate international law and undermine prospects for peace and stability in the region.

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New Delhi signed onto the statement late Wednesday, shortly before the deadline to endorse the joint declaration expired. The move comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Israel next week, during which he is also expected to address the Israeli parliament.


“We strongly condemn unilateral Israeli decisions and measures aimed at expanding Israel’s unlawful presence in the West Bank,” the statement said, adding that such actions contravene Israel’s obligations under international law and “must be immediately reversed.”

The declaration also firmly opposed any form of annexation, reiterating rejection of “all measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character and status of the Palestinian Territory occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem.”

(With inputs from TOI)