The recently signed bilateral investment treaty between India and Israel has stirred political and social debate within India, with AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi and the Students Islamic Organisation (SIO) emerging as some of the most vocal critics of the agreement. Their concerns highlight not only India’s evolving foreign policy but also the domestic political sensitivities around New Delhi’s ties with Tel Aviv.

Owaisi’s Strong Criticism

In a sharp statement, Owaisi criticised the bilateral investment treaty with Israel, raising concerns about its broader political implications. He argued that strengthening economic ties with Israel at this moment was deeply problematic given the ongoing conflict in West Asia and Israel’s treatment of Palestinians.

According to Owaisi, India’s decision sends the wrong signal internationally and undermines the country’s traditional policy of balancing ties in the Middle East. He has repeatedly highlighted that India historically supported the Palestinian cause and warned that such treaties might weaken India’s credibility as a neutral player in the region.

SIO’s Condemnation of Israel and Bezalel Smotrich

The Students Islamic Organisation of India (SIO) joined the criticism by condemning the presence of Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich in India. The group referred to Israel as an “oppressor” and claimed that hosting Smotrich undermined India’s democratic and humanitarian values.

Smotrich, known for his controversial far-right views and remarks about Palestinians, has often been accused of promoting policies that fuel tensions in the region. His presence at bilateral meetings in India has drawn strong criticism not just from SIO but also from human rights groups.

The Bilateral Investment Treaty Explained

The India-Israel bilateral investment treaty aims to facilitate greater economic cooperation between the two nations, especially in sectors such as technology, defence, agriculture, and innovation. The agreement is expected to:

• Provide legal safeguards for investors from both countries.

• Promote cross-border investments and joint ventures.

• Strengthen trade relations, which already stand at several billion dollars annually.

Supporters of the treaty argue that it will help India attract advanced Israeli technology, especially in areas like water management, cybersecurity, and defence systems.

Domestic Political Debate

The deal, however, has entered the domestic political spotlight. Critics like Owaisi argue that deepening economic ties with Israel without addressing humanitarian concerns sends a message of indifference to the suffering of Palestinians.

SIO and other organisations have emphasised that hosting leaders like Smotrich legitimises far-right politics in the region. They maintain that India should have insisted on a more balanced approach rather than appearing to side with Israel during such a turbulent period in West Asia.

India’s Diplomatic Balancing Act

India has historically balanced its foreign policy in West Asia by maintaining good relations with Israel while supporting the Palestinian cause. However, in recent years, the strategic partnership with Israel has grown significantly, especially in defence, trade, and technology.

While Israel has emerged as a key supplier of defence equipment to India, critics argue that New Delhi should not allow security and economic considerations to override humanitarian principles.

Regional and International Reactions

The new treaty has been welcomed by Israeli officials, who see India as a key ally in Asia. At the same time, Palestinian groups and their supporters worldwide have expressed disappointment over India’s decision.

For India, the treaty could bring tangible economic and strategic benefits, but it also risks alienating important partners in the Arab world. With millions of Indian workers employed in the Gulf, maintaining balanced relations remains crucial.

Broader Implications

The controversy surrounding Owaisi’s criticism and SIO’s condemnation points to the growing political sensitivity of India’s relations with Israel. As India continues to seek global economic partnerships, questions about the ethical and humanitarian implications of such ties are likely to remain central.

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