Recent reports reveal a significant uptick in Indian arms exports to Israel, drawing sharp criticism from various quarters. According to the Israeli newspaper "Yediot Aharonot," India has sold a substantial quantity of weapons to Israel since the onset of the latest Gaza conflict. These arms have reportedly played a crucial role in the ongoing hostilities in the region.
In a notable development, Israel has established a factory in Hyderabad for the production of Advanced Tactical Systems (ATS) intended to bolster the Indian military. Indian sources indicate that during the Gaza war, this facility produced 20 air defense systems for Israel, following setbacks faced by Israeli air defenses due to attacks by Lebanon's Hezbollah.
Historically recognized for its diversity and tolerance, and celebrated as an anti-colonial nation, India's international standing has suffered in recent years. Critics attribute this decline to the policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Accusations of aligning with white nationalist ideologies, engaging in anti-Islamic activities, and aligning closely with Western and Israeli interests have tarnished India's reputation.
The situation has further deteriorated with the rise of pro-Israel sentiment among certain Indian internet users amid the conflict. Analyses suggest that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invested heavily in leveraging Indian support against common adversaries, particularly Muslims.
As of the latest reports, the recent escalation in Gaza, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in over 37,000 Palestinian deaths and more than 85,000 injuries. This violence has reignited global debates about the historical and ongoing impacts of Israeli actions in Palestinian territories.
The Israeli state was founded in 1917 following British colonial efforts and Jewish immigration to Palestine. Officially declared in 1948, Israel's existence has since been marked by ongoing conflicts with Palestinians, as it seeks to expand its territory.
These developments raise critical questions about India's role and ethical stance in global conflicts, especially in light of its historical anti-colonial ethos. The international community watches closely as India navigates its complex relationships and foreign policy decisions in an increasingly polarized world.
