India’s position on the Israel-Palestine issue has undergone a significant evolution over the past three decades. Once a staunch supporter of the Palestinian cause, India today maintains strong strategic ties with Israel while continuing to back a two-state solution.

This recalibration reflects changing geopolitical realities rather than a sudden “switch of sides”.

From solidarity to strategic balance

In the decades following independence, India was among the strongest supporters of Palestine, formally recognising the Palestine Liberation Organization in 1974. It consistently voted in favour of Palestinian statehood at the United Nations.

However, in 1992, India established full diplomatic relations with Israel, opening the door to defence and technological cooperation. The end of the Cold War, economic liberalisation and shifting global alliances influenced this move.

Defence, technology and security

Israel has since become one of India’s key defence suppliers, providing surveillance systems, missiles, drones and agricultural technology. Security cooperation deepened after the 1999 Kargil conflict and subsequent counter-terrorism collaboration.

At the same time, India continues to support a two-state solution — advocating peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine based on dialogue and international law.

Energy and diaspora considerations

India’s West Asia policy also balances relations with Gulf nations, where millions of Indian expatriates live and where the country sources a large share of its crude oil.

In recent years, India has engaged in new regional frameworks such as the I2U2 Group, reflecting a pragmatic approach focused on trade, technology and connectivity.

Why it matters now

The Israel-Palestine conflict continues to influence global diplomacy. India’s calibrated stance aims to preserve strategic autonomy — strengthening defence ties with Israel while maintaining historical support for Palestinian aspirations.

In an increasingly polarised global environment, India’s approach underscores a broader foreign policy principle: engaging multiple partners without fully aligning with any single bloc.