India Can Mediate Between Israel and Palestine, Says Palestinian Foreign Minister

New Delhi: Palestinian Foreign Minister Warsen Aghabekian Shaheen, on her visit to India, expressed confidence in India’s potential role as a mediator in the Israel-Palestine conflict. Highlighting the long-standing ties between India and Palestine, she said India’s balanced approach in West Asia positions it to help resolve ongoing disputes and support a peaceful two-state solution.

Speaking in New Delhi, Shaheen said, “India is a great country that has always stood with the Palestinian people. We respect India greatly and believe it can play a significant role in mediating between Israel and Palestine to end the conflict and occupation.” She also noted India’s clear stance in favor of international law, the two-state framework, and the New York Declaration.

Appreciation for India’s Support
The Palestinian minister praised India’s development assistance to Palestine, particularly in education, healthcare, and social infrastructure. She highlighted Indian-supported schools, hospitals, medical centers, and multipurpose recreational facilities in the West Bank that benefit Palestinian children. Shaheen also commended India’s consistent backing of Palestinian self-determination and human rights initiatives in international forums.

Historical Ties and Continued Diplomacy
Shaheen recalled that the last high-level visit by Palestinian leadership to India was in 2017, when several agreements were signed. She emphasized the historical roots of India-Palestine relations, dating back to the 1930s, and India’s support for the Palestinian cause during the 1947 partition. She mentioned Mahatma Gandhi’s opposition to the partition of Palestine and reiterated India’s solidarity with Palestinians in the occupied territories of East Jerusalem.

The visit underscores India’s growing diplomatic engagement in West Asia and its potential role as a mediator in one of the region’s most enduring conflicts.