The Israel-Palestine conflict is one of the longest and most emotionally charged disputes in modern history. It's a complicated mix of politics, religion, history, and identity that has spanned generations and claimed countless lives. As a country with historical ties to both Palestine and Israel—and strong interests in the larger West Asian region—India finds itself in a position that demands careful diplomacy and thoughtful balance.
This blog explores how India navigates this sensitive issue, why it matters for India's foreign policy, and what the future may hold as the region continues to evolve.

A Long and Painful Conflict

To understand India's role, it's important to quickly glance at the conflict itself.

The Israel-Palestine issue goes back to the early 20th century, during the collapse of the Ottoman Empire and British rule in Palestine. In 1948, the state of Israel was established, which led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. This marked the beginning of decades of tension, wars, and unresolved pain. Palestinians seek their own sovereign nation, while Israel maintains its right to exist securely and peacefully. Over the years, countless peace talks have failed, and violence continues to erupt from time to time.

In the middle of this complicated and emotional situation, countries like India are expected to take a stand—or at least have a clear position.

India's Historical Support for Palestine

When India became independent in 1947, its leaders viewed the world through the lens of anti-colonialism and justice. Mahatma Gandhi himself had deep sympathies for the Palestinians, and India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, supported their right to self-determination. In fact, India was one of the first non-Arab countries to officially recognize the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) in the 1970s. For decades, India backed the Palestinian cause at the United Nations and other international platforms.

This wasn't just political. India had strong economic and emotional ties with the Arab world—countries that supported India during tough times like the 1971 war with Pakistan and the oil crisis. Millions of Indians also live and work in Gulf countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, sending billions in remittances back home.
Supporting Palestine, therefore, was a mix of ideology, diplomacy, and strategic interest.

A New Chapter with Israel

However, the world was changing fast by the 1990s. India's economy was opening up, and new security threats were emerging. In 1992, India took a major step and established full diplomatic relations with Israel. This was the beginning of a quiet but steady friendship. Israel became one of India's top defense suppliers. Indian security agencies learned counter-terror strategies from Israel. Israeli technology began to help Indian farmers increase crop yields, manage water more efficiently, and modernize their agriculture. As terrorism grew globally, India and Israel found common ground in sharing intelligence and security cooperation.

Things moved even faster after 2014, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power. In 2017, Modi made history by becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Israel. Photos of him walking hand-in-hand with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu went viral, symbolizing a new openness in their relationship. Deals were signed, military cooperation increased, and trade grew stronger.

But Palestine Wasn't Forgotten

Despite this growing bond with Israel, India didn't abandon its old friend. In fact, just months after Modi's visit to Israel, he became the first Indian PM to visit Ramallah, the capital of the Palestinian Authority. There, he reaffirmed India's commitment to the two-state solution—a peaceful agreement where both Israel and Palestine can coexist as independent nations. India has continued to provide financial aid and development assistance to Palestine, building schools, hospitals, and training centres. It has called for peaceful negotiations and condemned violence from both sides. Even during major escalations, India has tried to strike a careful tone—supporting Israel's right to defend itself while also urging restraint and dialogue.

Why the Balancing Act Matters

India's strategy in West Asia isn't just about Israel and Palestine—it's about maintaining a careful diplomatic web across the entire region. Here's why it matters so much:
India gets over 50% of its oil from West Asia. Millions of Indian citizens live and work in Gulf countries. Any instability in the region affects India's economy and domestic politics. At the same time, Israel offers India high-tech solutions, military tools, and cooperation on national security. So India can't afford to pick one side blindly. It needs strong ties with both Israel and the Arab world. That's why you'll rarely see India making harsh statements or taking dramatic positions. Instead, it promotes peace, dialogue, and development. This isn't weakness—it's a calculated effort to protect national interest while upholding its values.

Challenges and Domestic Opinions

This middle path is not easy.
Inside India, there are different voices. Some support stronger ties with Israel, especially from security and defence angles. Others worry that India is moving too close to Israel and ignoring the Palestinian issue. There are also religious sensitivities, with India's large Muslim population often more supportive of the Palestinian side. Internationally, India's position can be misunderstood. Some nations expect clear support for their cause. But India walks a tightrope, balancing morality with practicality.

Recent Conflicts and India's Response

When violence erupted in Gaza in 2021 and again in 2023, the world looked to India's response. The Indian government expressed concern about civilian casualties, condemned terrorism, and urged both sides to work toward peace. It didn't fully endorse any one side. This careful response received praise from some and criticism from others—but it fit with India's overall policy of strategic neutrality and focus on long-term solutions.

What Lies Ahead?

Looking forward, India's role in West Asia will become even more important. The region is changing. New alliances like the Abraham Accords (between Israel and several Arab states) are reshaping the map. At the same time, violence and tension still simmer in places like Gaza and the West Bank. India has the opportunity to act as a bridge—building trust, encouraging peace, and sharing development experiences with both Israel and Palestine. As a rising global power, India can also speak up for fairness, justice, and peaceful coexistence. It won't be easy. But India's past experience, strategic interests, and moral foundations give it the tools to play a positive role.

Final Thoughts

The Israel-Palestine conflict is deeply emotional and painfully complex. There are no easy answers. But for India, the path forward lies in balance—keeping friendships with both sides, promoting peace, and staying true to its values of justice and dialogue. As West Asia goes through new changes, India must continue walking the tightrope with care and clarity. If done right, this balancing act could not only secure India's national interests but also contribute to lasting peace in one of the world's most troubled regions.