Congress Accuses PM Modi of 'Blind Devotion' to Israel, Citing Harm to National Interests

The Indian National Congress has launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy approach, specifically his government's perceived 'blind devotion' to Israel, asserting that this stance gravely jeopardizes India's national interests. This criticism, voiced by Congress leaders, comes amid concerns over India's diplomatic positioning in the rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape of West Asia.

According to the Congress party, the Modi government's unwavering support for Israel, even to the extent of remaining silent on controversial statements made by Israeli officials, represents a significant deviation from India's historically balanced foreign policy. A key point of contention cited by the Congress on Saturday was the Indian government's lack of response to inflammatory remarks made by Israel's National Security Minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, regarding Lebanon. This silence, they argue, not only undermines India's diplomatic credibility but also carries potential risks for the nation's standing on the global stage.

Congress General Secretary in-charge of communications, Jairam Ramesh, emphasized that India's national interest necessitates a more judicious and balanced approach, particularly concerning West Asia. He welcomed reports of an impending agreement between the United States and Iran to halt hostilities in the region, an accord expected to be signed in Geneva on June 19. Ramesh underscored the universal hope that all involved parties, including Israel, would adhere to this interim agreement, paving the way for more permanent normalization.

Beyond the immediate concerns in West Asia, the Congress also linked the Modi government's foreign policy to broader strategic challenges. Ramesh warned that Pakistan appears to have gained renewed regional and global influence. This development, coupled with China's deepening strategic ties with Pakistan, presents a 'formidable geo-political challenge' for India's foreign policy. The Congress leader stated that while it might be 'too much to expect Mr. Modi to rethink his blind devotion and unconditional support to Israel,' India's national interest, humanitarian considerations, and long-standing commitments demand a greater balance than the current administration has demonstrated.

Historically, India's foreign policy has been characterized by strategic autonomy and a multi-aligned approach, particularly in the Middle East. For decades, New Delhi managed to maintain cordial relations with Gulf Arab countries, Israel, and Iran, often insulating each relationship from the others. While India recognized Israel in 1950, full diplomatic relations were only established in 1992, marking a shift from a more pro-Palestinian and non-aligned stance. Since then, India and Israel have developed a comprehensive strategic partnership encompassing defense, agriculture, and technology.

However, under the Modi government, there has been a noticeable shift, with India moving closer to Israel as a key technology and defense partner. This realignment, perceived by some as an ideologically driven foreign policy influenced by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's Hindutva ideology, potentially risks India's long-standing commitment to strategic autonomy. Critics argue that this tilt could strain India's relations with Arab nations, which are crucial for energy imports and host a large Indian diaspora whose remittances are vital to the Indian economy.

The Congress further argued that India's economic challenges predate the current conflict in West Asia, asserting that the rupee has been under pressure and private investment rates have been tepid for many years. The party's criticism suggests that the government's perceived 'blind devotion' to Israel might benefit certain interests, possibly referring to a 'Modani empire,' while potentially compromising the nation's broader diplomatic and economic stability. The current geopolitical pressures in West Asia, including initiatives like the I2U2 (India, Israel, US, UAE) and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, highlight India's complex strategic balancing act, which the Congress believes is now under threat due to a lack of balanced diplomacy.