ABSTRACT
The ongoing Israel–Palestine conflict is not a unique phenomenon in the history of international relations. War, political confrontations, territorial expansionism, peace settlements, and negotiations have been taking place worldwide, especially with the rise of the nation’s state post the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648. By the end of the 20th century, the world was split between two distinct groups: Global North and Global South, based on its economic development. The Global South with its colonial experiences forms a critical arena challenging the Eurocentric understanding of international politics. Countries from the Global South, which include 88% of the world’s population, have taken the Israel–Palestine conflict very seriously, seeking a transparent, consistent, and cohesive voice. It is within this context, India’s stand on the Israel–Palestine conflict represents a sophisticated manoeuvre of strategic equilibrium along its broader foreign policy goal and domestic economic stability concerns. India rooted in its commitment to anti-colonial solidarity has advocated for Palestine’s self-determination. However, in recent decades a shift has been discernible towards a more balancing approach, influenced by India’s economic liberation and its pursuit for technological and defensive modernisation. India has thus maintained a delicate equilibrium, endorsing Palestinian self-determination while simultaneously nurturing robust bilateral relations with Israel. This balanced strategy is shaped by its interactions with major powers, considerations for regional stability, and its ambitions for a more prominent role in global governance structures, where India seeks to protect its national interests, ensure regional stability, and uphold its long-standing principles of non-alignment and support for self-determination. This is particularly relevant in the contemporary context of India’s burgeoning global economy, markets, and its significant position on global platforms as a representative of the Global South.
