During his address to the Knesset on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined the Gaza Peace Initiative as a vital pathway towards achieving "just and durable peace" in the Middle East. His speech focused on fostering collaboration and understanding between Israel and Palestine, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in resolving longstanding conflicts. Modi's remarks were aimed at encouraging both sides to engage in constructive negotiations.
However, the Congress party criticized Modi's address, accusing him of an "unabashed defence of host" Israel, which they argue undermines India's traditionally balanced stance in the region. The opposition contended that Modi's speech lacked a nuanced approach, failing to adequately represent the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Congress leaders expressed concern that this could potentially alienate India from other key partners in the Middle East.
In response to the criticism, government officials defended the Prime Minister's remarks, stating that Modi's address was intended to highlight India's commitment to peace and stability in the region. They argued that the speech was consistent with India's foreign policy objectives, which aim to support peaceful resolutions through dialogue and diplomacy. As the debate continues, the international community watches closely to see how India's diplomatic strategies in the Middle East evolve.
— Authored by Next24 Live