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10 Mar 2026·Source: The Indian Express
6 min
RS
Ritu Singh|India
International RelationsPolity & GovernanceNEWS

India's Strategic Stance on Israel-Hamas Conflict and Regional Peace

Delhi navigates the Israel-Hamas war, balancing strategic interests with humanitarian concerns for regional stability.

UPSC●SSC

Quick Revision

1.

India is articulating its position on the Israel-Hamas conflict.

2.

India emphasizes its commitment to peace and stability in West Asia.

3.

India supports a two-state solution.

4.

India provides humanitarian aid to Gaza.

5.

India maintains strong ties with both Israel and Arab nations.

6.

India's strategic interests include energy security and diaspora welfare.

7.

India participates in multilateral forums to de-escalate tension.

Visual Insights

Key Metrics of India-Israel Strategic Partnership (2026)

Key statistics highlighting the economic and labor cooperation between India and Israel as of early 2026.

Indian Workers to Israel
50,000

Agreement signed in 2026 to address labor shortages in Israel over 5 years.

Bilateral Trade (2024)
$6.5 Billion

Significant growth from $200 million in 1992.

UAE Investment in Food Parks
$2 Billion

Part of the I2U2 initiative to strengthen India's food security.

Mains & Interview Focus

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India's nuanced approach to the Israel-Hamas conflict underscores a pragmatic shift in its foreign policy, moving decisively beyond ideological moorings to a clear articulation of national interest. Delhi's emphasis on a two-state solution and humanitarian aid to Gaza, while simultaneously nurturing robust ties with Israel and key Arab nations, is a testament to its strategic autonomy. This balancing act is not merely diplomatic posturing; it reflects deep economic and security imperatives.

Historically, India's West Asia policy was largely defined by its support for the Palestinian cause, rooted in its anti-colonial legacy. However, the past two decades have witnessed a significant recalibration, driven by India's burgeoning energy needs and the welfare of its 9-million-strong diaspora in the Gulf. The establishment of the I2U2 grouping (India, Israel, UAE, US) and the proposed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) are clear indicators of this multi-faceted engagement, prioritizing connectivity and economic partnership.

Maintaining strong relationships with both Israel, a key partner in defence and technology, and the Arab world, crucial for energy security and trade, presents a complex challenge. India's consistent call for de-escalation and adherence to international law, without explicitly condemning either side, allows it to retain leverage with all parties. This contrasts sharply with the more overt stances taken by some Western powers, which often alienate one side or the other.

The long-term stability of West Asia is paramount for India's economic trajectory. Any prolonged conflict or disruption in the region directly threatens India's energy supply chains and the remittances from its diaspora, which are vital for its economy. Therefore, India's diplomatic efforts in multilateral forums are not just about moral high ground but are firmly rooted in safeguarding its tangible national assets.

Moving forward, India must continue to leverage its growing economic and strategic clout to advocate for a peaceful resolution. Its ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, from Riyadh to Tel Aviv, positions it uniquely to contribute to de-escalation. Delhi's sustained diplomatic engagement will be critical in shaping a post-conflict regional order that is conducive to its long-term interests.

Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper 2: International Relations - India and its neighborhood- relations.

2.

GS Paper 2: International Relations - Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

3.

GS Paper 2: International Relations - Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

View Detailed Summary

Summary

India is carefully managing its relationships with both Israel and Arab countries during the ongoing conflict, focusing on its own interests like getting oil and protecting Indian citizens working there. It wants peace in the region and supports a solution where both Israelis and Palestinians can have their own states.

प्रधानमंत्री नरेंद्र मोदी ने 27 फरवरी, 2026 को इजरायल का दो दिवसीय दौरा संपन्न किया, जहां उन्होंने रक्षा और कृत्रिम बुद्धिमत्ता (AI) में सहयोग को गहरा करने का संकल्प लिया। इस यात्रा के दौरान, भारत और इजरायल ने अपनी 'समय-परीक्षित साझेदारी' को 'विशेष रणनीतिक साझेदारी' तक बढ़ाने का ऐतिहासिक निर्णय लिया और एक मुक्त व्यापार समझौते की दिशा में काम करने पर भी सहमति व्यक्त की। यह 2017 के बाद मोदी की इजरायल की दूसरी यात्रा थी।

यात्रा के दौरान, प्रधानमंत्री मोदी ने याद वाशेम, इजरायल के होलोकॉस्ट स्मारक का दौरा किया और इजरायली संसद (क्नेसेट) को संबोधित किया, जहां उन्होंने अक्टूबर 2023 के हमास-नेतृत्व वाले हमले की निंदा की। उन्होंने कहा, 'हम आपका दर्द महसूस करते हैं। हम आपके दुख में शामिल हैं। भारत इस क्षण में और उसके बाद भी इजरायल के साथ दृढ़ता से खड़ा है।' भारत ने पहले भी इस हमले की निंदा की थी, जबकि गाजा में नागरिक हताहतों पर चिंता व्यक्त की थी और दो-राज्य समाधान के लिए अपने समर्थन को दोहराया था। दोनों देशों ने साइबर सुरक्षा, व्यापार, अंतरिक्ष अन्वेषण, शिक्षा, निवेश, कृषि और आर्थिक सहयोग सहित एक दर्जन से अधिक द्विपक्षीय समझौतों पर हस्ताक्षर किए। इजरायल ने अगले पांच वर्षों में 50,000 और भारतीय श्रमिकों को देश में प्रवेश देने का वादा किया, जबकि भारत ने अपनी डिजिटल भुगतान प्रणाली - UPI - को इजरायल तक विस्तारित करने की बात कही, जिससे डिजिटल वित्त सहयोग को बढ़ावा मिलेगा।

एक संयुक्त बयान में, दोनों नेताओं ने 'आतंकवाद' और सीमा पार आतंकवाद की 'स्पष्ट रूप से निंदा' की और अमेरिकी राष्ट्रपति डोनाल्ड ट्रम्प की गाजा शांति योजना की सराहना की। मोदी ने कहा, 'भारत की सोच स्पष्ट है: मानवता कभी भी संघर्ष का शिकार नहीं होनी चाहिए। गाजा शांति योजना ने शांति का मार्ग खोला है। भारत ने इन प्रयासों का पूरा समर्थन किया है।' मोदी ने 26 फरवरी, 2026 को क्नेसेट में अपने संबोधन के दौरान भारत-मध्य पूर्व-यूरोप आर्थिक गलियारा (IMEC) और I2U2 जैसे विभिन्न परियोजनाओं पर घनिष्ठ सहयोग का भी आग्रह किया। IMEC परियोजना की घोषणा 9 सितंबर, 2023 को नई दिल्ली में G20 शिखर सम्मेलन के दौरान की गई थी, जिसका उद्देश्य भारत, संयुक्त अरब अमीरात, सऊदी अरब, जॉर्डन, इजरायल और यूरोप को एक एकीकृत रेल और शिपिंग गलियारे से जोड़ना है। I2U2 समूह की स्थापना 14 जुलाई, 2022 को भारत, इजरायल, संयुक्त अरब अमीरात और संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिका द्वारा एक आभासी शिखर सम्मेलन में की गई थी, जिसका उद्देश्य जल, ऊर्जा, परिवहन, अंतरिक्ष, स्वास्थ्य, खाद्य सुरक्षा और प्रौद्योगिकी जैसे क्षेत्रों में वैश्विक चुनौतियों का समाधान करना है।

भारत और इजरायल के बीच व्यापार 1992 में 200 मिलियन डॉलर से बढ़कर 2024 में 6.5 बिलियन डॉलर हो गया है, जिससे भारत चीन के बाद इजरायल का एशिया में दूसरा सबसे बड़ा व्यापारिक भागीदार बन गया है। हालांकि, इस यात्रा को मुख्य विपक्षी कांग्रेस पार्टी के प्रवक्ता जयराम रमेश ने फिलिस्तीनी मुद्दे को छोड़ने का आरोप लगाते हुए आलोचना का सामना करना पड़ा। विश्लेषकों का मानना है कि यह यात्रा भारत के दीर्घकालिक रणनीतिक हितों को दर्शाती है, जिसमें क्षेत्रीय स्थिरता भारत के व्यापक हितों के लिए महत्वपूर्ण है। यह विकास भारत की विदेश नीति के लिए महत्वपूर्ण है, विशेषकर पश्चिम एशिया में अपनी 'डी-हाइफेनेटेड' रणनीति को बनाए रखने में, और यह UPSC सिविल सेवा परीक्षा के सामान्य अध्ययन पेपर-2 (अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संबंध) के लिए अत्यधिक प्रासंगिक है।

Background

भारत और इजरायल के बीच संबंधों का एक जटिल इतिहास रहा है। भारत ने शुरू में इजरायल के निर्माण और संयुक्त राष्ट्र सदस्यता का विरोध किया था, क्योंकि वह फिलिस्तीनी स्वतंत्रता के संघर्ष के साथ दृढ़ता से जुड़ा हुआ था। भारत ने 1950 में इजरायल को मान्यता दी, लेकिन पूर्ण राजनयिक संबंध 1992 तक स्थापित नहीं हुए। इसके बाद, दोनों देशों के बीच आर्थिक संबंध धीरे-धीरे बढ़े।

2014 में प्रधानमंत्री नरेंद्र मोदी के सत्ता में आने के बाद से, भारत-इजरायल संबंधों में एक महत्वपूर्ण बदलाव आया है। भारत ने पश्चिम एशिया में अपनी विदेश नीति को 'डी-हाइफेनेटेड' दृष्टिकोण के साथ आगे बढ़ाया है, जिसका अर्थ है कि इजरायल और फिलिस्तीन के साथ संबंध एक-दूसरे से स्वतंत्र रूप से देखे जाते हैं। यह नीति भारत को दोनों पक्षों के साथ मजबूत संबंध बनाए रखने की अनुमति देती है, जबकि अपने स्वयं के रणनीतिक हितों को प्राथमिकता देती है।

यह 'डी-हाइफेनेटेड' दृष्टिकोण भारत को अपने ऊर्जा सुरक्षा हितों, पश्चिम एशिया में बड़े भारतीय प्रवासी के कल्याण और आतंकवाद विरोधी सहयोग जैसे महत्वपूर्ण क्षेत्रों में अपनी भागीदारी को संतुलित करने में मदद करता है।

Latest Developments

हाल के वर्षों में, भारत और इजरायल ने रक्षा, प्रौद्योगिकी और आर्थिक क्षेत्रों में सहयोग को मजबूत किया है। 2022 में I2U2 समूह की स्थापना, जिसमें भारत, इजरायल, संयुक्त अरब अमीरात और संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिका शामिल हैं, ने जल, ऊर्जा और खाद्य सुरक्षा जैसे क्षेत्रों में सहयोग के लिए एक नया मंच प्रदान किया है। इसके अलावा, 2023 में भारत-मध्य पूर्व-यूरोप आर्थिक गलियारा (IMEC) की घोषणा, जिसका उद्देश्य एशिया, मध्य पूर्व और यूरोप को जोड़ना है, क्षेत्रीय कनेक्टिविटी और आर्थिक एकीकरण के लिए भारत की बढ़ती महत्वाकांक्षाओं को दर्शाती है। इजरायल-हमास संघर्ष के बीच, भारत ने एक संतुलित रुख बनाए रखा है, जिसमें अक्टूबर 2023 के हमास हमले की निंदा की गई है, जबकि गाजा में नागरिक हताहतों पर चिंता व्यक्त की गई है और दो-राज्य समाधान के लिए समर्थन दोहराया गया है। यह भारत की 'डी-हाइफेनेटेड' नीति का एक महत्वपूर्ण परीक्षण है। हाल ही में, इजरायल द्वारा 50,000 भारतीय श्रमिकों को अनुमति देने और भारत द्वारा इजरायल में UPI के विस्तार जैसे कदम दोनों देशों के बीच बढ़ते द्विपक्षीय संबंधों को उजागर करते हैं। भविष्य में, भारत का लक्ष्य पश्चिम एशिया में अपनी रणनीतिक स्वायत्तता को बनाए रखना है, जबकि IMEC और I2U2 जैसे बहुपक्षीय मंचों के माध्यम से क्षेत्रीय स्थिरता और आर्थिक विकास में योगदान देना है। यह क्षेत्र में जटिल भू-राजनीतिक गतिशीलता के बीच भारत के हितों को सुरक्षित करने के लिए महत्वपूर्ण है।

Sources & Further Reading

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. India has expressed solidarity with Israel and deepened strategic ties, yet it also supports a two-state solution and provides aid to Gaza. How does India balance these seemingly contradictory positions on the Israel-Hamas conflict?

India's approach is guided by its long-standing foreign policy principles of non-alignment and strategic autonomy. It seeks to maintain robust bilateral relations with both Israel and Arab nations, recognizing their individual importance to India's strategic and economic interests.

  • •Strategic Interests: Deepening defense and AI cooperation with Israel is crucial for India's security and technological advancement.
  • •Humanitarian Concerns: Providing humanitarian aid to Gaza aligns with India's compassionate foreign policy and commitment to human welfare.
  • •Regional Stability: Advocating for a two-state solution is seen as the most viable path to lasting peace and stability in West Asia, which is vital for India's energy security and diaspora.
  • •Historical Ties: India maintains historical ties with the Palestinian cause while evolving its relationship with Israel.

Exam Tip

In Mains, when asked about India's West Asia policy, emphasize "strategic autonomy" and "multi-alignment" rather than choosing sides. Highlight the balance between national interest, humanitarian concerns, and regional stability.

2. What is the 'two-state solution' that India consistently advocates for in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict, and why is it considered a cornerstone for regional peace?

The 'two-state solution' proposes the establishment of an independent, sovereign Palestinian state existing peacefully alongside the State of Israel.

  • •Basis for Peace: It is widely regarded as the most viable framework for resolving the protracted Israel-Palestine conflict, ensuring security for both peoples.
  • •International Consensus: Many nations, including India, support this solution as it addresses the aspirations of both Israelis for security and Palestinians for statehood.
  • •India's Stance: India has consistently supported the two-state solution, with East Jerusalem as the capital of a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state, living within secure and recognized borders.

Exam Tip

For Prelims, remember the core idea: two independent states. For Mains, connect it to India's broader West Asia policy and its emphasis on international law and peaceful resolution.

3. How do India's engagements in multilateral forums like the I2U2 group and initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) reflect its broader strategic objectives in West Asia, beyond the immediate conflict?

India's participation in I2U2 and IMEC signifies its proactive strategy to integrate economically and strategically with West Asia, transforming the region from a mere energy supplier to a key partner in connectivity, trade, and technology.

  • •Economic Integration: IMEC aims to enhance connectivity between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, boosting trade and economic ties, which is vital for India's growth.
  • •Diversified Partnerships: I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE, US) focuses on cooperation in critical areas like water, energy, and food security, diversifying India's partnerships beyond traditional blocs.
  • •Regional Stability through Prosperity: These initiatives promote shared prosperity and interdependence, which are seen as long-term drivers of regional stability, reducing the likelihood of conflicts.
  • •Counterbalancing Influence: Such engagements also allow India to project its influence and contribute to a multipolar world order.

Exam Tip

Remember I2U2 and IMEC are not just about Israel but about India's broader engagement in the Indo-Pacific and West Asia, linking economic strategy with geopolitical influence.

4. What factors have driven the significant shift in India's relationship with Israel, particularly since 2014, moving from initial opposition to a 'special strategic partnership'?

The shift in India-Israel relations, especially post-2014, is a result of evolving geopolitical realities, shared strategic interests, and a pragmatic foreign policy approach.

  • •Defense Cooperation: Israel became a major supplier of advanced defense technology to India, crucial for modernizing its armed forces.
  • •Technology and Innovation: Collaboration in areas like agriculture, water management, and high-tech industries has grown significantly.
  • •Counter-Terrorism: Both nations share concerns regarding terrorism and have enhanced intelligence sharing and security cooperation.
  • •Economic Opportunities: The potential for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and increased trade volume offers substantial economic benefits.
  • •De-hyphenation: India's policy has moved towards 'de-hyphenating' its relations with Israel and Palestine, treating them as separate bilateral relationships based on their own merits.

Exam Tip

When discussing this shift, avoid portraying it as abandoning Palestine. Instead, frame it as India's pragmatic pursuit of national interests while maintaining support for the Palestinian cause.

5. Which specific aspects of India's diplomatic and humanitarian efforts related to the Israel-Hamas conflict are most likely to be tested in UPSC Prelims?

UPSC Prelims often tests specific policy positions, key terms, and recent initiatives.

  • •Two-State Solution: India's consistent advocacy for a 'two-state solution' as the path to peace.
  • •Humanitarian Aid: The fact that India provides humanitarian aid to Gaza.
  • •Condemnation of Attack: India's condemnation of the October 2023 Hamas-led attack.
  • •Strategic Partnership: The upgrade of India-Israel ties to a 'special strategic partnership' and PM Modi's second visit.
  • •Multilateral Engagements: Awareness of India's role in I2U2 and IMEC, and their purpose.

Exam Tip

Pay attention to specific terms like 'two-state solution', 'special strategic partnership', and the names of multilateral groups like I2U2 and IMEC. UPSC might set traps by changing the members of I2U2 or the purpose of IMEC.

6. What are the primary challenges India faces in maintaining its 'time-tested partnership' with Israel while simultaneously fostering strong ties with Arab nations amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict?

India faces a delicate diplomatic tightrope walk, balancing its strategic interests, energy security, and diaspora concerns in a highly volatile region.

  • •Perception Management: Ensuring that deepening ties with Israel are not perceived by Arab nations as a dilution of support for the Palestinian cause.
  • •Energy Security: Maintaining stable relations with oil-rich Arab nations is crucial for India's energy needs.
  • •Diaspora Safety: Protecting the large Indian diaspora in both Israel and Arab countries.
  • •Geopolitical Alignment: Navigating regional power dynamics and avoiding being drawn into complex alliances that could alienate other partners.
  • •Credibility on Two-State Solution: Upholding its consistent stance on the two-state solution while engaging with all parties.

Exam Tip

In Mains answers, emphasize India's "multi-alignment" strategy and its ability to engage with diverse partners based on mutual benefit, rather than ideological alignment.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC): 1. The IMEC project was announced during the G20 summit in New Delhi in September 2023. 2. It aims to connect India, the Middle East, and Europe through an integrated rail and shipping corridor. 3. Jordan is one of the countries through which the IMEC corridor is proposed to pass. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: D

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The IMEC project was indeed announced on September 9, 2023, during a Group of 20 summit in New Delhi. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The IMEC is a proposed infrastructure project designed to connect India, the Middle East, and Europe with an integrated rail and shipping corridor, aiming to foster economic cooperation and green development. Statement 3 is CORRECT: According to the project's website, the corridor would pass through India, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Europe. Therefore, all three statements are correct.

2. With reference to India-Israel relations, consider the following statements: 1. India established full diplomatic relations with Israel in 1950. 2. India is currently Israel's second largest trading partner in Asia after China. 3. The I2U2 group includes India, Israel, UAE, and the United States. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is INCORRECT: India recognized Israel in 1950, but full diplomatic relations were delayed until 1992. Statement 2 is CORRECT: According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, India is currently Israel’s second largest trading partner in Asia after China, with trade jumping from $200m in 1992 to $6.5bn in 2024. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The I2U2 group was established by India, Israel, the UAE, and the United States at a virtual summit on July 14, 2022. Therefore, statements 2 and 3 are correct.

3. Which of the following statements best describes India's 'de-hyphenated' foreign policy approach in West Asia?

  • A.India prioritizes its relations with Israel over its ties with Palestine and other Arab nations.
  • B.India maintains strong independent relations with both Israel and Palestine, without one affecting the other.
  • C.India has completely severed its diplomatic ties with Palestine to strengthen relations with Israel.
  • D.India exclusively focuses on economic cooperation with West Asian countries, avoiding political issues.
Show Answer

Answer: B

Option B correctly describes India's 'de-hyphenated' foreign policy approach. This strategy allows India to pursue strong, independent bilateral relations with both Israel and Palestine, as well as other Arab nations, without making one contingent on the other. This contrasts with earlier policies where relations with Israel were often viewed through the lens of the Palestinian issue. The recent visit by PM Modi to Israel, while also expressing concern for civilian casualties in Gaza and reiterating support for a two-state solution, exemplifies this approach.

4. Which of the following is NOT an area of bilateral agreement concluded between India and Israel during Prime Minister Modi's recent visit?

  • A.Cybersecurity
  • B.Space exploration
  • C.Nuclear energy cooperation
  • D.Agriculture
Show Answer

Answer: C

During Prime Minister Modi's recent visit, India and Israel concluded over a dozen bilateral agreements. These agreements covered areas such as cybersecurity, trade, space exploration, education, investment, agriculture, and economic cooperation. Nuclear energy cooperation was NOT explicitly mentioned as one of the areas for bilateral agreements during this visit in the provided sources. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

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About the Author

Ritu Singh

Foreign Policy & Diplomacy Researcher

Ritu Singh writes about International Relations at GKSolver, breaking down complex developments into clear, exam-relevant analysis.

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