Israel–India relations: seeking balance and realism

Abstract

While fulfilling long-cherished Israeli aspirations, normalization established a balance and realism in Indian Middle East policy. Without abandoning its traditional ties with the Arab and Islamic countries of the Middle East, India is actively pursuing closer relations with Israel. Having lost more than four decades due to mistrust and indifference, normalization provides an opportunity for both countries to improve understanding and co-operation. Since the late 1990s a number of critical factors have enabled these countries to strengthen their relations. The events of September 11 have reminded both India and Israel of the vulnerabilities of democracies to international terrorism and compelled them to intensify their co-operation. Above all, India's newly found strategic friendship with the US appears to work in favour of greater IndoIsraeli co-operation.