India has been calling for a cease-fire as well as for the expansion of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip while simultaneously expressing support for Israel and its fight against Hamas, marking a shift from its traditional policy of neutrality on the Middle East.
Indian national security adviser Ajit Doval visited Israel Monday and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu along with Israeli national security adviser Tzachi Hangebi and Indian Ambassador Sanjeev Singla. Few details have emerged aside from the situation in Gaza and regional developments being discussed.
Israel's former ambassador to India, Daniel Carmon, told Al-Monitor this week that Doval is one of the most important figures in India’s security and foreign relations. "Doval comes from the defense establishment with an intelligence background and has always been open to dialogue with Israelis. He knows us very well, especially the relevant Israeli defense establishments and organizations, and appreciates the ties between our countries," he said.
Israel-India relations evolve