Israel urges India to declare Hamas a terrorist organization
What's the story
Israel is once again urging India to officially designate Hamas as a terrorist organization. The appeal comes soon after a number of Hamas leaders were seen in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) during "Kashmir Solidarity Day" last month. Reportedly, these leaders were accompanied by members of United Nations-proscribed terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
Legislative process
India's stance on Hamas ban under consideration
The matter of banning Hamas has been raised time and again in the Indian Parliament. However, the External Affairs Ministry clarified that such designations come under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and are discussed by concerned government departments. In 2023, Israel had banned the Pakistan-based LeT, which was responsible for the Mumbai terror attacks.
Diplomatic balance
Israel's diplomatic efforts and India's balanced approach
Notably, Naor Gilon, Israel's then-ambassador to India, had hoped India would also proscribe Hamas. He had said that information regarding Hamas's terrorist activities had been shared with the Indian government. While India hasn't banned Hamas yet, it has consistently supported Israel's right to defend itself against terrorism at the same time maintaining its ties with the Palestinian people.
Two-state support
India's support for a 2-state solution
India has time and again reiterated its support for a negotiated two-state solution and the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state alongside Israel. It also supports Palestine's membership in the United Nations. This balanced approach is indicative of India's diplomatic position on the Israel-Palestine conflict, even as it weighs Israel's request to declare Hamas a terrorist organization.