Sonia Gandhi has sharply criticized India’s response to the ongoing crisis in Palestine, arguing that the government’s silence reflects personal diplomacy rather than national values. She attributed this muted stance to the close relationship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggesting that such ties have overshadowed India’s long-standing principles in foreign policy.

Criticism of Government Silence

Gandhi stated that India’s lack of a strong position on the situation in Palestine cannot be explained by national interest or historical tradition. Instead, she argued, it stems from the personal friendship between the two leaders. According to her, this approach risks compromising India’s credibility as a country that has historically stood for freedom, dignity, and justice on the global stage.

Impact of Personalized Diplomacy

She emphasized that when foreign policy decisions are shaped by personal relationships rather than institutional principles, they undermine consistency and reliability. Gandhi warned that this personalization of diplomacy could weaken India’s voice in international affairs and erode its reputation as a nation guided by values rather than individual preferences.

India’s Historical Stance on Global Issues

India has traditionally positioned itself as a supporter of self-determination and human rights in international forums. Gandhi highlighted this legacy, noting that silence in moments of crisis departs from the country’s established role as an advocate for oppressed peoples worldwide. She argued that remaining quiet not only diminishes India’s moral authority but also signals complicity in actions that contradict its long-held principles.

Silence as Complicity

In her remarks, Gandhi stressed that failing to speak out amounts to tacit approval of what is happening on the ground. By not voicing concern or condemnation, she said, India risks being seen as indifferent or supportive of policies that undermine human dignity. This silence, she added, does not align with the values enshrined in India’s own democratic and humanitarian traditions.

A Call for Value-Based Foreign Policy

Gandhi urged a return to a value-driven approach in international relations—one where decisions reflect collective national ideals rather than individual friendships between leaders. She underscored that foreign policy should be rooted in principles of justice and equality if India is to maintain its standing as a respected voice globally.

In conclusion, Sonia Gandhi framed her criticism as a broader warning about the dangers of reducing foreign policy to personal connections at the expense of national ideals. By linking government silence on Palestine to Modi-Netanyahu ties, she called attention to what she sees as an erosion of India’s moral compass in world affairs. Her remarks highlight an ongoing debate about whether personalized diplomacy strengthens or undermines a nation’s long-term interests and credibility abroad.