The BJP responded on Saturday to Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s criticism of the government’s stance on the Gaza conflict, claiming her comments aimed to mislead the public about India’s position. The party stated that India has repeatedly outlined its views on Gaza and Palestine, delivered humanitarian assistance, and backed United Nations resolutions for a ceasefire. Gandhi’s article in The Indian Express accused the administration of moral failure and national interest lapses by remaining silent on events in Gaza, arguing this has isolated India from traditional partners in the region and allowed Pakistan to assume a mediation role. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla countered that Congress places electoral considerations above foreign policy. He noted India’s consistent statements, aid efforts, and the highest civilian award from Palestine given to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Poonawalla highlighted Modi’s ability to engage nations on opposing sides of conflicts, describing the approach as one of broad alignment rather than non-alignment. He also claimed past Congress governments avoided closer Israel ties for political reasons and failed to condemn Hamas attacks while remaining quiet on issues affecting Hindus elsewhere.
