On October 7, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tweet expressing support for "Israel" on the microblogging site X (formerly Twitter), left many questioning the nation's stance on the Palestinian issue and whether a significant policy shift was underway.

The tweet carried significant implications that would set the stage for a nationwide debate. It didn't take long for the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, to personally reach out to PM Modi. Reports indicated that during the call, Netanyahu briefed Modi on Hamas' attack. 

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs swiftly issued a press release following their conversation, reiterating Prime Minister Modi's unwavering support for "Israel" and condemning the Hamas attack as a "terrorist attack."

It conveyed heartfelt condolences to those affected by the attacks, underlining India's solidarity with "Israel" during this trying time. The release also emphasized India's staunch opposition to what it deemed as terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

However, the aftermath of Modi's tweet raised questions about India's foreign policy on the Palestinian issue. The opposition party, Congress, adopted a resolution supporting Palestine, setting the stage for a political showdown.

The resolution, passed by the Congress Working Committee (CWC), the party's highest decision-making body, expressed deep concern about what was happening in Palestine. It called for an immediate ceasefire and reaffirmed the party's enduring support for the rights of the Palestinian people, emphasizing their right to land, self-government, dignity, and respect.

"The CWC calls for an immediate cease-fire and for negotiations to begin on all outstanding issues, including the imperative issues that have given rise to the present conflict," the statement read.

India Supports Palestine, Clarified Ministry of External Affairs

Amid this political rift, Arindam Bagchi, India's Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson, during the weekly briefing said:

“India has always advocated for direct negotiations aimed at establishing a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state, living within secure and internationally recognized borders alongside Israel.”  

Notably, the Ministry refrained from condemning the loss of lives in Gaza due to Israeli attacks.

 Protest in India

As the debate raged, solidarity protests for Palestine erupted across various Indian states. The largest of these demonstrations was organized by the Muslim organization Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind in Kolkata. Thousands took to the streets, demanding decisive action against "Israel" and an end to the brutal aggression on the people of Gaza.

Following the protest march, a rally was organized, where Siddiqullah Chowdhury, the state chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind and a cabinet minister in the West Bengal government, voiced his concerns over Prime Minister Modi's recent tweet. 

The protests were also reported in other parts of India including the National Capital - New Delhi where protesters chanted ‘Down Down Israel’ and raised songs in support of Palestine.

Is there a Shift in India’s Policy?

The burning question remained: is there a shift in India's policy? Experts are divided, with many acknowledging the tightrope India was walking due to its growing bilateral ties with "Israel" since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992.

Rajat Singh, a foreign policy expert based in New Delhi, commented, "The increased bilateral cooperation, especially in trade, defense, and counter-terrorism, has put India in a tight spot."

Journalist Rohit Khanna opines that even as India walks closer to the US-"Israel" in defense cooperation, it is difficult for them to ignore the sentiments of Arab Nations concerning Palestine.

The situation was further complicated by the divided political landscape. While the ruling party stood firmly by "Israel", the opposition expressed unwavering support for Palestine. India's policy had traditionally remained consistent, irrespective of the party in power. 

“India’s foreign policy vis a vis Israel - Palestine conflict has been consistent & clear right from the start regardless of whichever party was in power. Vajpayee, former prime minister of India (1996; 1998–2004) called "Israel" an occupying force that mustn’t be allowed to continue reaping the benefits of occupation. Today once again BJP is choosing their agenda over national policy” says Mehbooba Mufti, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.

As the international community grappled with the ongoing Israeli aggression on Gaza, India's stance remained a subject of intense discussion and scrutiny. Different parties continued to express varying views on the situation in the Middle East, reflecting the complexities of India's foreign policy.