India Condemns Israel in Rare Move After PM Modi’s Call with Qatar Amir

Introduction

In a significant and rare diplomatic development, India has strongly condemned Israel for its recent attacks in Doha, Qatar. The condemnation came shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Qatar’s Amir, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, during which he expressed deep concern over the “violation of the sovereignty of the brotherly State of Qatar.” This move is being seen as a powerful statement of solidarity with Doha and a notable shift in India’s public stance, highlighting the growing strategic importance of its relationship with the Gulf nation.

Key Takeaways: A Major Diplomatic Shift

• The Call: PM Modi spoke with Qatar’s Amir, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, condemning the Israeli attacks in Doha.

• The Condemnation: India officially slammed the “cowardly Israeli attack,” calling it a “violation of sovereignty,” a move described as rare, if not unprecedented.

• India’s Stance: PM Modi affirmed India’s firm support for peace and stability in the region and stressed resolving issues through dialogue and diplomacy.

• The Context: The strong condemnation underscores the deepening personal and strategic partnership between India and Qatar.

A “Rare, If Not Unprecedented” Condemnation

For years, India has carefully balanced its relationships in the Middle East, maintaining strong ties with both Israel and the Arab world. While India has historically condemned the killing of civilians in the Gaza conflict, such a direct and strong condemnation of an Israeli military action, particularly one described as “cowardly,” is a significant departure from its usual diplomatic language.

During the phone call, PM Modi was unequivocal in his support for Qatar. According to the official readouts, he emphasized the need to avoid escalation and reiterated that India stands firmly against terrorism in all its forms. This statement is crucial as it balances the condemnation of Israel’s action with India’s long-standing position on terrorism.

Spoke with Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani and expressed deep concern at the attacks in Doha. India condemns the violation of the sovereignty of the brotherly State of Qatar. We support resolution of issues through dialogue and diplomacy, and avoiding escalation.…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 10, 2025

The Deepening India-Qatar Partnership

This powerful diplomatic support for Doha is a clear reflection of the strengthening ties between the two nations, a relationship that has been personally nurtured by PM Modi and the Amir. The strategic importance of this partnership was highlighted recently by several key events:

• Pardon of Navy Veterans: The personal intervention of the leaders led to the pardon and release of eight Indian Navy veterans who were previously sentenced to death in Qatar.

• Strategic Partnership: The bilateral relationship was recently elevated to a ‘Strategic Partnership’.

• Qatar’s Mediation Role: PM Modi also appreciated Qatar’s significant efforts in mediating the conflict in Gaza to achieve a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages.

A Balancing Act on the World Stage

While this move might seem like a new tilt in India’s foreign policy, it is part of a broader, more assertive balancing act. India has consistently called for the adherence to international humanitarian law amid the global outrage over Israel’s actions in Gaza. Furthermore, at the recent SCO summit, India joined other member nations in condemning Israeli and US attacks on Iran and its nuclear facilities.

This shows that while India values its partnership with Israel, especially in defense and technology, it will not shy away from taking a strong stand to protect its strategic interests and relationships with key partners in the Gulf region.

Conclusion

India’s strong condemnation of Israel’s actions in Doha is a powerful diplomatic signal that underscores the nation’s commitment to its strategic partnership with Qatar. It is a calculated move that balances condemnation with a firm stance against terrorism, reinforcing India’s role as a voice for peace and stability in a volatile region. This “rare” development showcases a foreign policy that is both pragmatic and principled, prioritizing its national interests while navigating the complex geopolitics of the Middle East.

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Sources:

• PM Narendra Modi X Handle

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