Israel Iran War: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Jerusalem in February 2026 has triggered sharp political reactions in India. With tensions escalating in West Asia and reports of joint US-Israeli military strikes on Iran, several opposition leaders described the trip as “ill-timed” and “shameful.”
Congress Slams Visit as ‘Moral Cowardice’
Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh termed the visit “shameful,” “cynical,” and “hypocritical.” He questioned the timing of the Prime Minister’s engagement, noting it came just 48 hours before reported joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Ramesh described the move as “moral cowardice” and accused the government of abandoning India’s balanced diplomatic posture.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also urged the Prime Minister to raise concerns over Palestinian civilian deaths during his address to the Knesset. She expressed hope that humanitarian issues in Gaza would not be ignored during the official visit.
Sachin Pilot added that the timing of the visit was “not correct” and said the Prime Minister’s remarks risked casting doubt on India’s traditional impartial stance in the region.
Owaisi Questions Foreign Policy Shift
Asaduddin Owaisi criticised the visit on X, alleging that India was moving away from its long-standing multi-alignment policy. He argued that the decision appeared driven by ideology rather than national interest.
Other Political and Parliamentary Concerns
Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera highlighted what he called the irony of visiting Israel shortly before military developments involving Iran, which he described as an old friend of India.
Left parties, including the CPI(M) and CPI(ML) Liberation, termed the visit a “betrayal of the Palestinian cause.” Meanwhile, members of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs reportedly raised concerns about regional instability and US military build-up prior to the visit.
Israeli Political Angle
Even within Israel, opposition leader Yair Lapid and others initially threatened to boycott PM Modi’s Knesset address over a domestic protocol issue, though they later attended the speech.
Political Debate Continues
Israel Iran War: The visit has intensified debate over India’s West Asia strategy. While the government maintains it pursues an independent foreign policy based on national interest, opposition parties argue that diplomatic timing and humanitarian messaging remain crucial during periods of conflict.
