Congress Slams Modi’s Israel Visit, Flags Shift in India’s Palestine Policy

The Congress on Tuesday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi ’s upcoming visit to Israel , alleging that the government has sidelined the Palestinian cause at a time when the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to draw international concern. Congress communications chief Jairam Ramesh said the Centre’s stated support for Palestinian rights was inconsistent with its diplomatic posture. He argued that India, which recognised the State of Palestine in 1988 , should continue to reflect that legacy in its foreign policy approach.

The remarks come ahead of Modi’s two-day visit to Israel beginning February 25, during which he is expected to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu , hold talks with President Isaac Herzog , and address the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset . The visit has also stirred political debate within Israel, where opposition figures have reportedly threatened to boycott the address, adding to the controversy surrounding the trip.

Despite the domestic political reactions, officials view the trip as part of India’s broader effort to deepen its strategic partnership with Israel. The two countries are expected to strengthen cooperation in defence , advanced technologies and cybersecurity , with discussions likely to include updating security arrangements and expanding collaboration in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and quantum technologies . Reports also indicate that the visit could see renewed security cooperation agreements , reflecting shifting geopolitical dynamics in West Asia and the growing defence relationship between the two countries.

Modi’s trip will be his second to Israel after the landmark 2017 visit that elevated bilateral ties to a strategic partnership and marked the first ever visit by an Indian prime minister to the country. Analysts note that India’s relations with Israel have steadily expanded in defence , technology and trade , even as New Delhi continues to officially support a two-state solution and Palestinian statehood.

The Congress, however, argues that the government’s emphasis on Israel risks sending a political signal that undermines India’s traditional balancing role in the region. The government has not yet issued a detailed response to the opposition’s criticism. Diplomatically, officials maintain that India’s approach seeks to strengthen ties with Israel while continuing to support peace efforts and regional stability .

With strategic cooperation expected to dominate the agenda, Modi’s visit underscores the growing importance of the India-Israel partnership even as it fuels renewed political debate at home