PDP Leader Mehbooba Mufti Condemns PM Modi's Diplomatic Trip to Israel
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti has launched a sharp critique against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Israel, describing the tour as "not a good sign for Mahatma Gandhi's India." The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister made these remarks during an interview with news agency PTI in Anantnag on Thursday, where she expressed strong disapproval of the diplomatic engagement.
Mufti Labels Israeli PM as Criminal, Questions Modi's Diplomacy
In her pointed criticism, Mehbooba Mufti referred to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a "criminal" and highlighted that Netanyahu avoids traveling to numerous countries due to fear of potential arrest. "I think our country's policy is against it. Today, the whole world opposes Israel PM Netanyahu. The International Criminal Court has indicted him. He does not visit many countries for fear of arrest," she stated emphatically.
Mufti further elaborated on her concerns, questioning the appropriateness of Prime Minister Modi's interactions with Netanyahu. "Modi, who represents 140 crore people, goes there and hugs a criminal, meets and talks to him, I think, it is not a good sign for our country, for Gandhi's India," she told PTI, underscoring her belief that such diplomatic gestures contradict India's traditional values and global standing.
PM Modi's Historic Address at Israeli Parliament
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Israel included a landmark address at the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, on Wednesday. This speech marked the first time an Indian Prime Minister has addressed the Knesset, representing a significant moment in bilateral relations between the two nations. Modi arrived in the West Asian country just hours before delivering his historic remarks.
Beginning his parliamentary address with the greetings "Shalom" and "Namaste," PM Modi extended heartfelt condolences to Israel regarding the "barbaric terrorist attack Hamas carried out on October 7, 2023." He firmly stated that "no cause can justify murder of civilians" and expressed solidarity with Israel, saying, "We feel your pain... India stands with Israel... in this moment & beyond."
Strengthening Ties Against Terrorism
The Prime Minister's speech emphasized the shared experiences of both nations in combating terrorism. "India has also endured the pain of terrorism for a long time," Modi declared, highlighting the renewed resolve between India and Israel to confront this global menace together. This moment of diplomatic solidarity was met with enthusiastic support from Israeli lawmakers and officials.
Upon his arrival at the Knesset, Prime Minister Modi received a standing ovation accompanied by chants of "Modi, Modi" from attendees. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara Netanyahu participated in an official reception ceremony, where Netanyahu warmly described Modi as a "dear friend" and expressed being deeply moved by the Indian leader's visit.
Contrasting Perspectives on Foreign Policy
The contrasting reactions to PM Modi's Israel visit highlight differing perspectives within Indian political circles regarding foreign policy and international alliances. While the government views the trip as strengthening strategic partnerships and condemning terrorism, opposition voices like Mehbooba Mufti's raise concerns about aligning with controversial global figures.
This diplomatic engagement comes at a time when Israel faces international scrutiny, with Netanyahu facing legal challenges from the International Criminal Court. The visit underscores India's evolving foreign policy priorities in the Middle East and its commitment to standing with nations affected by terrorism, even as domestic critics question the moral dimensions of such alliances.
