Following the unveiling of a US-led peace plan for Gaza, Israeli Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, expressed gratitude to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support, signaling a potential role for India in the region's future. The plan, backed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has garnered international attention, with India's potential involvement sparking discussions about its long-standing relationship with both Israel and Palestine.
India's Stance and the Gaza Plan
Prime Minister Modi welcomed the peace plan as a step towards stability in the region. In a statement, Modi described it as "a viable pathway to long-term and sustainable peace, security and development for the Palestinian and Israeli people, as also for the larger West Asian region". Azar acknowledged Modi's support, expressing hope that more countries would join the initiative. The peace plan, spearheaded by US President Donald Trump, outlines preconditions for Palestinian self-rule, emphasizing governance, rule of law, a constitution, free press, fair elections, human rights protections, religious freedom, and an independent judiciary.
India's Historical Role and Support
India has historically maintained a neutral stance in the Israel-Palestine conflict, advocating for a negotiated two-state solution. India was one of the first non-Arab countries to recognize the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) as the sole representative of the Palestinian people and has consistently supported the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. While maintaining diplomatic ties with Israel, India has also provided humanitarian aid and diplomatic support to Palestine.
India's Potential Role in Reconstruction
Given the extensive damage in Gaza, the international community is discussing reconstruction efforts. India has been suggested as a potential leader in these efforts, owing to its established presence, good relations with both Israel and Palestine, and experience in peacekeeping. India has previously contributed to Gaza reconstruction, pledging US$4 million in 2014. These funds were allocated towards capacity development, education, information technology, and projects under the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Fund, including the reconstruction of the Atta Habib medical center in Shujiyaa. India has also contributed US$1 million annually to the United Nations Relief Works Agency (UNRWA) for food and medicine in Gaza.
Navigating the Path Forward
While India has expressed support for the peace plan, the response from Hamas remains uncertain. The plan proposes an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and a phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. It also envisions Gaza as a "deradicalized terror-free zone". If Hamas rejects the deal, Israel, with the backing of the U.S. would continue its military operations.
Despite the complexities and uncertainties, India's historical ties, neutral stance, and commitment to humanitarian aid position it as a potential contributor to the peace process and reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
