Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Israel has strengthened the strategic partnership between the two countries. The visit highlights cooperation in defence, technology, agriculture and counter-terrorism. However, it also raises important questions about the diplomatic costs India may face, especially regarding the Palestine issue and its broader balancing role in West Asia.
India’s foreign policy in West Asia has traditionally focused on maintaining balance. The Gulf Cooperation Council countries are not only major energy suppliers but also home to millions of Indian expatriates whose remittances contribute significantly to the economy. The Gulf region remains vital for India’s energy security, trade and the welfare of its diaspora. In his speech at the Knesset, the Prime Minister said that India shared the pain and grief of every life lost in the October 2023 terror attack by Hamas. However, he did not mention the larger number of Palestinians killed in the strikes on Gaza by Israel since then. Ultimately, the visit highlights the complexities of India’s West Asia diplomacy, where strategic opportunities intersect with long-standing commitments and regional sensitivities. The success of this engagement will depend on India’s ability to strengthen partnerships while maintaining trust across the region.
