Indian Muslim Groups Urge Government to End Military Ties with Israel Amid Gaza Conflict

Indian Muslim Groups Urge Government to End Military Ties with Israel Amid Gaza Conflict
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A coalition of Indian Muslim organisations, Islamic scholars, and civil society groups has urged the Indian government to end military and strategic cooperation with Israel in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, according to a joint statement reported Friday. The statement, issued in the name of India’s over 200 million Muslims and peace advocates nationwide, expressed solidarity with Palestinians and called on New Delhi to denounce Israeli military actions and support global peace initiatives.

It also urged India to champion humanitarian aid and push for the immediate opening of aid corridors to Gaza. The appeal follows a recent meeting in New Delhi between Indian officials and Israeli military representatives to discuss long-term defence collaboration, as reported by Pillars news website. India and Israel have significantly deepened strategic ties since establishing full diplomatic relations in 1992. Bilateral defence ties now include weapons procurement, joint R&D, and cybersecurity cooperation.

Despite expanding trade and military relations, public opposition within India—particularly among student groups, rights activists, and Muslim communities—has intensified since Israel’s offensive on Gaza began in October 2023. The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of Palestinian deaths and widespread humanitarian devastation, prompting calls for a stronger Indian stance on the crisis.