War in Gaza Strip and relations with the Middle East: evaluating New Delhi’s steps in the “Jenga”

Abstract

The ‘war’ between Israel and Hamas has split the international community and put New Delhi in a diplomatic bind. After initially expressing support for Israel, the Modi government has adopted a more cautious approach on the war in light of support for the Palestinian cause by countries of the Global South and the consolidation of anti-Israel sentiments in the Arab world. As New Delhi continues to balance its interests, values and relationships, the article analyses the predicaments of the Modi regime. This article argues that while ‘structural factors’ may influence India’s stance on the war, domestic factors also shape New Delhi’s strategy. New Delhi recognizes that its nuanced pro-Israel position and its response to the conflict in the Gaza Strip will have a substantial impact on its diplomatic footprint in the Middle East. The Modi administration has also recognized that, considering India’s growing economic prowess, the countries of the Middle East cannot afford to jeopardize their ties with New Delhi.