An analytical study of India Israel strategic partnership convergence and constraints

Abstract

India s long historical relationship with West Asia, encompassing visits, dialogue, settlements, trade and commerce, is a key example of true long historical links. Understanding India s Look West policy and modern, Linkwest Policyand#8223; is important for understanding relations with Israel. India-Israel relations have evolved significantly over the past 30 years, with India becoming Israel s top consumer of military hardware, second-largest defence supplier, and third-largest Asian trading partner. The relationship has expanded to include high-tech items, defence equipment, space, security, and intelligence. Indian policymakers will continue to shift their positions on a case-by-case basis about Middle East issues such as Israel s relations with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the Palestine conflict. India-Israel ties have significantly improved since the Modi administration assumed office in 2014, mainly due to realistic changes in the government s approach towards Israel. India-Israel relations are bound with various other geopolitical aspects which keep India-Israel relations on tenterhooks. Middle East factor, Iranian factor, India s Internal electoral politics, Palestine issue, China factor etc are some of the issues which force India to adjust its foreign policy accordingly. However, in the recent past, India is able to break down the shackles of internal as well as external pressure which were acting as a hurdle in India-Israel relations. newline