A Shifting Sands: India’s Evolving Dance with Israel and Palestine
India’s relationship with the Middle East has long been a complex tapestry, woven with threads of historical solidarity, strategic necessity, and evolving geopolitical realities. From Mahatma Gandhi’s moral stance to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s warm embrace of Israeli leadership, the narrative of India’s ties with both Israel and Palestine has undergone a remarkable transformation over the decades.
The Gandhian Ethos: Early Solidarity with Palestine
In the nascent years of independent India, the nation’s foreign policy was deeply rooted in anti-colonialism and a commitment to self-determination. Mahatma Gandhi himself expressed strong sympathy for the Palestinian cause, viewing the displacement of Palestinians as an injustice. This moral compass guided India’s initial diplomatic posture, leading to consistent support for the Palestinian people at international forums.
The Nehruvian Era: Covert Engagements and Ideological Alignment
Under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, India maintained a firm public stance in solidarity with Palestine, refusing to establish full diplomatic relations with Israel for decades after its formation in 1948. This was influenced by a desire to champion the cause of newly independent nations, maintain strong ties with Arab countries (crucial for oil and migrant workers), and uphold its non-aligned principles. However, beneath the surface, pragmatic engagements with Israel, particularly in intelligence and defense, began to quietly blossom, hinting at a more nuanced reality than public policy suggested.
Post-1992: The Dawn of Full Diplomatic Ties with Israel
A significant turning point arrived in 1992, following the end of the Cold War and the launch of the Madrid peace process. India finally established full diplomatic relations with Israel. This decision was driven by several factors: the need for advanced defense technology, opportunities for agricultural and water management cooperation, and a broader shift in global geopolitics that made ideological resistance less viable. This marked the beginning of a rapid and robust growth in bilateral ties, particularly in defense, technology, and intelligence sharing.
The 21st Century & The Modi Era: De-hyphenation and Closer Alignment
In the 21st century, India’s approach to the Middle East has matured. The concept of ‘de-hyphenation’ has become central – meaning India no longer views its relationship with Israel through the prism of its relationship with Palestine, or vice versa. This allows India to pursue strong, independent ties with both nations based on its national interests. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this policy has become particularly pronounced. Modi’s visit to Israel in 2017 was historic, marking the first by an Indian Prime Minister, and was characterized by a visible warmth and focus on shared economic and strategic priorities, signaling an elevated strategic partnership. While India continues to express support for a two-state solution and provide aid to Palestine, the public optics and strategic focus have undoubtedly shifted towards a more overt and enthusiastic engagement with Israel.
From Gandhi’s ethical stance to Modi’s strategic embrace, India’s journey reflects a dynamic evolution, balancing historical solidarity with modern strategic imperatives, making its Middle East policy one of the most intriguing and closely watched in contemporary international relations.
Source: Original Article
