In a major diplomatic development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer have called for a “two-state solution” to resolve the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasising the need for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in the region.

The joint appeal came during a series of diplomatic engagements this week, with both leaders highlighting the urgency of restoring peace and preventing further humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

The discussions follow Modi’s phone call with former U.S. President Donald Trump, during which the Indian leader congratulated Trump on his recently announced Gaza peace initiative. The three leaders’ coordinated statements mark one of the most significant international pushes toward de-escalation in the conflict since the renewed violence erupted earlier this year.

Modi and Starmer push for a two-state solution

Both Prime Ministers agreed that lasting peace in the Middle East can only be achieved through a two-state solution — one that allows Israel and Palestine to coexist peacefully and securely, with recognised borders and mutual respect.

In a joint statement, Modi and Starmer said that violence and civilian suffering must stop immediately, calling on both sides to uphold international law and humanitarian principles.

Starmer noted that the United Kingdom remains committed to supporting “a viable, sovereign Palestinian state alongside a secure Israel.” Modi echoed similar sentiments, reinforcing India’s long-standing support for a negotiated settlement.

“India has always stood for peace, stability, and dialogue. Violence benefits no one. The only sustainable path forward is a peaceful coexistence built on trust and mutual recognition,” Modi said.

The two leaders also condemned the continued targeting of civilians in Gaza and Israel, urging both the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Palestinian factions to respect international humanitarian law.

Humanitarian crisis in Gaza prompts global concern

The latest conflict has led to one of the worst humanitarian crises in Gaza in recent years, with thousands displaced and infrastructure destroyed. Hospitals remain overcrowded, and essential supplies such as fuel, food, and medical aid have run dangerously low.

According to United Nations reports, more than 80% of Gaza’s population now requires urgent humanitarian assistance. Starmer called for “unhindered humanitarian access” to all affected areas, stressing that aid workers must be allowed to deliver relief safely.

“The images coming out of Gaza are deeply distressing. The international community must come together not just to stop the fighting but to rebuild hope,” Starmer said.

India has already dispatched multiple humanitarian consignments to Gaza through the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), containing medicines, tents, and food supplies.

Modi speaks with Trump, backs Gaza peace initiative

In a significant diplomatic outreach, Prime Minister Modi held a telephone conversation with former U.S. President Donald Trump, during which he congratulated him for launching what has been described as the “Gaza Peace Initiative” — a multi-nation effort aimed at restoring calm and initiating direct peace talks between Israel and Palestinian authorities.

During the call, Modi expressed appreciation for Trump’s renewed involvement in the peace process, noting that “the world must come together to silence the guns and revive the talks.”

The Gaza Peace Initiative, announced by Trump earlier this week, reportedly involves a temporary ceasefire, exchange of hostages, and reconstruction fund for Gaza to be jointly managed by international agencies.

Sources indicate that India, the UK, and the United States may form part of a contact group to facilitate the talks. The group is expected to engage regional players such as Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, who have maintained active diplomatic roles in Middle Eastern affairs.

India’s evolving Middle East diplomacy

India’s engagement in the Middle East has deepened significantly under Modi’s leadership. Traditionally balancing relations with Israel and Palestine, New Delhi has increasingly positioned itself as a neutral peace facilitator with strong ties to both sides.

India’s historical support for Palestinian self-determination remains unchanged, while its strategic and defence cooperation with Israel has grown considerably over the last decade. Modi’s statements in favour of a two-state solution reaffirm India’s balanced approach and underline its role as a responsible global actor.

Experts suggest that this balanced diplomacy enables India to maintain credibility with both Western allies and Arab nations, many of which rely on India for trade, technology, and energy cooperation.

Dr. K.C. Singh, former Indian diplomat, remarked:

“Modi’s reaffirmation of the two-state solution at this juncture shows strategic maturity. It strengthens India’s voice in global peace efforts while keeping its relationships intact with Israel and the Arab world.”

Starmer’s global stance on conflict resolution

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s position on the Israel-Palestine issue has evolved since taking office. While the UK has historically supported Israel’s right to self-defence, Starmer has consistently highlighted the humanitarian dimensions of the conflict, calling for a ceasefire and dialogue.

His government has faced domestic pressure from both human rights groups and pro-Israel advocates, but Starmer’s measured response has sought to maintain Britain’s traditional role as a mediator in international disputes.

In the joint statement, Starmer said:

“The UK believes in a just and lasting peace that guarantees security for Israelis and dignity for Palestinians. The time has come for the world to act with unity, not division.”

The statement represents a rare alignment of India and the UK’s foreign policies on a highly polarising global issue, underlining the shared view that diplomacy, not warfare, is the only path to stability in the Middle East.

International reactions and the road ahead

The joint call by Modi and Starmer was welcomed by several international leaders and organisations. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres lauded the appeal for a ceasefire, stating that “leadership voices like those of India and the UK can bring much-needed momentum to the peace process.”

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