The recent Israeli-Hamas conflict highlights one of the mainstays of India's West Asian policy - the need to balance the traditional and long-standing national support for the Palestinian cause and the growing Israeli support as a used partner and provider of hi-tech military equipment. India has condemned Hamas rocket fusillades, which led to the death of the Indian nation, and described the actions of Israeli soldiers as retaliation, as it noted that both caused great suffering and led to death, including that of women and children.
India's refusal when the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) voted May 27 to launch an investigation into human rights violations between the Israeli-Hamas war should be reflected in the context of this measure.
New Delhi's decision not to do so may have been influenced by the fact that the decision to file an inquiry was submitted to the UNHRC by Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), but this will not detract from the fact that there has been widespread international criticism of the actions of Israeli soldiers in the Gaza Strip, especially the targeting of civil society and even the formation of housing news organizations.
India's recent statements to the UN and its organizations have cast clues on the country's traditional support for a "proper Palestinian war" and Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Malki has expressed concern over India's refusal to vote for UNHRC vote.
Historical changes in West Asia caused by the Abraham Accords should be a factor in the changing state of New Delhi in the region. But while maintaining its good relations with Israel, India will do well to redefine its long-standing values, and urge Israelis and Palestinians to focus on mutually beneficial dialogue. Take the best out of the old principles, add new facts, and make a balance.
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