Why Left Parties Are Outraged Over Modi's Israel Visit Amid Gaza Conflict
Left Parties Condemn Modi's Trip to Israel
In New Delhi, Leftist parties expressed strong disapproval of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Israel, claiming it coincides with Israel's ongoing military actions in Gaza, which they describe as a 'genocidal war' against Palestinians. They argue that this trip undermines the Palestinian cause.
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) issued a statement condemning the visit, asserting that Israel continues to carry out airstrikes in Gaza despite a declared ceasefire, leading to civilian deaths. They believe Modi's visit would effectively endorse the actions of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government.
"The CPI(M) firmly opposes Modi's trip to Israel, especially during a time when Israel is engaged in violent actions in Gaza," the party stated.
They highlighted that even with a ceasefire in place, Israel's military operations continue to claim Palestinian lives, and there has been an increase in assaults on Palestinians in the West Bank along with illegal settlement expansions.
The party also criticized the visit as an attempt to strengthen military and economic relations with what they term a 'Zionist expansionist regime' that seeks regional dominance with U.S. support.
They further noted that the timing of the visit is particularly troubling, as it coincides with U.S. preparations for potential military action against Iran, allegedly influenced by Israel.
The CPI(M) accused the BJP government of revealing its unwavering allegiance to the U.S.-Israeli alliance in the Middle East.
CPI(M) General Secretary M A Baby took to social media to label the visit as a betrayal of India's anti-colonial principles.
"Modi's support for Israel amid its ongoing assault on Palestine contradicts India's historical stance on self-determination for the Palestinian people, a position upheld by various UN resolutions that India has supported," Baby remarked.
He referred to Netanyahu as a 'war criminal' and suggested that Modi's visit would only serve to further Netanyahu's agenda.
The Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation also condemned the visit, calling it a disgraceful act that aligns India with the ongoing violence against Palestinians.
"This visit signifies political endorsement of the violence against Palestinian civilians, who are currently facing severe hardships under Israeli occupation," they stated.
They accused Modi of compromising India's sovereignty and historical commitment to anti-colonialism by visiting Israel.
The CPI(ML)L warned that the situation in West Asia is precarious, with escalating threats from the U.S.-Israel alliance potentially leading to broader conflict involving Iran.
Instead of advocating for an end to imperialist aggression globally, they claim the Modi administration is prioritizing relations with the U.S. and Israel.
The Left parties also alleged that since Modi took office in 2014, his government has adopted Israeli tactics of repression to bolster its domestic agenda.
"From demolitions to oppressive surveillance measures, the BJP has drawn inspiration from Israeli practices," they stated.
They concluded that Modi's visit to Israel tarnishes India's legacy of solidarity with oppressed peoples and disrespects the sacrifices made by those who fought against colonialism.
Modi's two-day visit to Israel includes discussions with Netanyahu, an address to the Knesset, and interactions with the Indian community there.
In his remarks before departure, Modi emphasized the strong and evolving strategic partnership between India and Israel, expressing eagerness for his discussions with Netanyahu.