India's Balanced Diplomacy on Israel-Palestine: Mona Kataria
Fazilka: In a world where most countries are being divided into geopolitical blocs, India has chosen a different path—that of strategic autonomy. India's relations with Israel are often seen in the context of global polarization, but this interpretation ignores the main principle of Indian foreign policy, self-determination based on national interests. Speaking, social worker Mona Kataria said that.
India had recognized Israel in 1950 itself, but full diplomatic relations were established in 1992. This 42-year gap was not a matter of hesitation, but a deliberate policy understanding. India has always pursued its relations with West Asia with balance and realism.
Today, India-Israel cooperation has expanded to the areas of defense, agriculture, water management and technology. Israel has been one of India's major defense suppliers. Systems like the Barak-8 air defense system and the Heron drone are making a significant contribution to India's security capabilities.
He said that along with this, India also has equally strong ties with Arab countries. Trade with the United Arab Emirates crossed $85 billion in 2022-23. Saudi Arabia is among India's major energy suppliers. About 60 percent of India's crude oil imports come from West Asia. More than 8 million Indians live and work in the Gulf countries, who send a large amount of money to the country every year. These figures make it clear that the politics of one faction is not possible for India.
Strategic autonomy gives India the freedom to continue defense and technology cooperation with Israel as well as strengthen energy and trade relations with the Gulf countries. Under this policy, India has also reiterated its support for humanitarian assistance and a two-state solution for Palestine in the United Nations.
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has made it clear on several forums that India wants partnerships, not alliances. Alliances demand conformity, while strategic autonomy gives freedom of choice. India works with Israel on drip irrigation and water recycling technology because it is in the interest of Indian farmers. It cooperates with Gulf countries on energy security and the interests of the Indian diaspora. It participates in multilateral groups like the IU because they provide economic benefits. All these relationships are not against each other, but complementary to each other.
In times of crisis, India has always called for de-escalation, protection of citizens and humanitarian assistance. This attitude strengthens India’s credibility. Strategic autonomy is not about taking sides or being stuck on either side. This is clarity—the understanding that self-determination is the real strength in a multipolar world. India's closeness to Israel is not a departure from its balanced West Asia policy, but an extension of it. He said that where interests meet, there is cooperation. Continuous support on human values and self-determination are taken in all circumstances.
