Context
- France, along with the UK, Canada, Portugal, and Australia, has recently recognized Palestinian statehood.
- India, which historically supported Palestinian self-determination, has taken a muted stance in recent times, showing a shift in foreign policy priorities.
Historical Background: India’s Traditional Support for Palestine
- November 18, 1988: India officially recognized the State of Palestine, one of the first non-Arab countries to do so.
- Pre-Independence Era: India raised issues of global justice, such as Apartheid in South Africa, even before independence.
- Algerian Struggle (1954–62): India was vocal in the UN, advocating for Algerian independence.
- Bangladesh Liberation (1971): India intervened to stop genocide in East Pakistan, showing its moral leadership.
- Vietnam War: India strongly opposed foreign intervention and atrocities in Vietnam.
Notable Point: India has consistently promoted the principles of international peace and security, which are embedded in the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs).
India’s Historical Position on Palestine
- 1974: India became one of the first countries to recognize the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).
- Supported a two-state solution, encouraging peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine.
- Backed numerous UN resolutions condemning illegal settlements and human rights violations.
- Actively provided educational scholarships, medical aid, and humanitarian support to Palestine.
Current Situation: Shift in India’s Stance
- Since October 2023, following escalated hostilities:
- Over 55,000 Palestinians killed, and 17,000 children among the casualties.
- Gaza’s infrastructure — hospitals, schools, agriculture — severely damaged.
- Israel’s response has been criticized as disproportionate and genocidal.
India’s Response:
- Adopted a neutral and muted tone, avoiding strong condemnation.
- Increased bilateral cooperation with Israel:
- Signed defense and tech agreements.
- Hosted Israeli ministers and strengthened strategic ties.
- This shift reflects personalized diplomacy rather than historical moral leadership.
Analysis of India’s Position
- Old Approach: Value-based diplomacy rooted in anti-colonial solidarity and human rights.
- New Approach: Pragmatic, focusing on strategic and security interests, especially with Israel in defense, technology, and agriculture.
Concerns:
- India’s silence is seen as:
- A departure from its ethical legacy.
- Weakening its image as a leader in global south politics.
- Ignoring humanitarian crises and historical ties with Palestine.
Act Now – Suggested Way Forward
- Balanced Diplomacy:
- Maintain strategic partnership with Israel.
- Simultaneously advocate for Palestinian rights and a two-state solution.
- Humanitarian Leadership:
- Push for ceasefires and humanitarian aid.
- Use India’s voice in UN and multilateral platforms for peace.
- Moral and Constitutional Duty:
- Align foreign policy with the Constitution’s values of justice and equality.
UPSC Prelims Pointers
- India recognized Palestine: 1988
- India recognized PLO: 1974
- Current allies recognizing Palestine (2024–25): France, UK, Canada, Portugal, Australia
- Two-State Solution: Key framework for Israel-Palestine peace.
- DPSP Link: International peace and security are directive principles under the Indian Constitution.