As Hamas initiated its assault on Israel, India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, swiftly issued a resolute statement, condemning the “terrorist attacks” and expressing India’s unwavering support for Israel during these challenging times. This prompt response from India’s leader, echoed by the Foreign Minister, sent a clear message to the international community.
Modi’s remarks, aligning with the stance of most Western governments, signify a significant departure from India’s historical position. It wasn’t until days later that the Foreign Ministry gently reminded the public of India’s longstanding commitment to the two-state solution for the Israel-Palestine conflict.
In a recent United Nations vote on a “humanitarian truce” in Gaza, India chose to abstain, differing from many other nations that supported the resolution. This rapid reaction and UN vote underscore the profound transformation in India’s relationship with Israel since Modi assumed power in 2014, symbolized by the overt camaraderie between the two countries’ leaders.
Nicolas Blarel, an associate professor of international relations at Leiden University and the author of “The Evolution of India’s Israel Policy,” noted, “Modi has consistently displayed open support for Israel, but this marks the first time we’ve seen an immediate, unequivocal pro-Israel response without a balancing statement following it.”
Israel interpreted Modi’s statement as wholehearted backing, as evidenced by Israel’s ambassador, Naor Gilon, publicly expressing gratitude for India’s “100% support.”
Historically, India held a different stance on Israel. Its first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Mahatma Gandhi opposed the establishment of an Israeli state, fearing it would disenfranchise Palestinians, and India voted against it at the UN. India was the first non-Arab country to recognize the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) as Palestine’s legitimate representative in the 1970s. India maintained a pro-Palestine position at the UN until establishing diplomatic ties with Israel in 1992.
India’s relationship with Israel underwent a significant shift in 1999 when India sought arms and ammunition during the conflict with Pakistan, leading to the growth of their defense collaboration. India now stands as Israel’s largest arms buyer after Russia, accounting for 46% of Israel’s overall arms exports.
However, it was Prime Minister Modi’s leadership that brought about a profound change. While previous governments maintained discreet dealings with Israel, Modi’s administration has been openly supportive. His visit to Israel in 2017, reciprocated by Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Delhi, was marked by a show of camaraderie. Images of the two leaders strolling barefoot on Tel Aviv’s Haifa beach were used in their political campaigns, symbolizing a partnership rooted in shared ideologies.
Modi’s administration has prioritized strengthening India-Israel ties in various domains, including defense, culture, agriculture, and commerce. This year, Indian billionaire Gautam Adani acquired the strategic Israeli port of Haifa for $1.2 billion.
Nonetheless, India’s foreign policy shift has also bolstered relations with Arab Gulf nations, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. These relations have not only benefited India economically but have also laid the groundwork for a groundbreaking India-Middle East economic trade corridor, running to Europe.
In the face of the ongoing Israeli-Hamas conflict, it is anticipated that India may temper its pro-Israel stance to avoid friction with its valuable Gulf partners. Observers have noted a deliberate silence from the Indian government following Modi’s initial remarks. If the conflict escalates, India will face a substantial diplomatic challenge, given its relationships with other nations that may get involved.
