Why did India denounce the Doha strike?

Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) targeted a residence in Doha, Qatar, where Hamas leaders were allegedly convening regarding the U.S.-suggested ceasefire initiative.

Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that the attack was "warranted," blaming Qatar for "hosting and financing" Hamas members.

India denounced the infringement on Qatar's sovereignty.

The remarks sharply contrast with India’s responses to Israel’s bombings of various other nations in the area, such as Lebanon, Yemen, Tunisia, Syria, and Iran.

Factors Influencing India's Position

Energy Security: Qatar serves as a vital LNG provider for India through long-term agreements.

Any escalation in Doha poses a direct risk to India's energy stability.

Significant Diaspora: More than 800,000 Indians reside in Qatar, making substantial contributions through remittances.

The safety of diaspora communities remains a key focus in India’s Gulf policy.

Strategic Equilibrium: India maintains robust defense and technological relationships with Israel, while simultaneously having significant economic and cultural connections with Arab Gulf nations.

The statement refrains from directly condemning Israel but expresses dissatisfaction with destabilizing actions.

Geopolitical Considerations: The U.S. is perceived as diminishing its security involvement in the Gulf.

India must sustain positive relations with GCC nations that are considering collaborative defense systems.

Alignment with Multilateral Position: India has recently endorsed the two-state solution for Palestine at the UNGA, and this position is consistent with that.

Consequences of India’s Position

Enhances Relations with Qatar & GCC: Indicates to Gulf nations that India prioritizes their security issues.

It will safeguard energy agreements, commerce, and the interests of the diaspora.

Preserves Israel Relations: India did not directly criticize but indicated that indiscriminate military measures are not acceptable.

Enhances India’s Reputation as a Responsible Nation: By labeling the strike a danger to “peace and stability,” India presents itself as a moderate, peace-focused player in West Asia.

This boosts India's reputation in platforms such as the Arab League, OIC, and UNGA.
Strategic Autonomy in Practice: Demonstrates that India is not unconditionally aligning with Israel or the U.S. perspective.

It bolsters India's strategy of multi-alignment in a multipolar West Asia.

Consequences for India's Policy in West Asia

Balancing Israel and the Arab World: India's strong relationship with Israel is now straining relations with the Arab nations, as their silence on Gaza amid significant civilian casualties is diminishing goodwill.

India's eventual support for the two-state solution at UNGA indicates the need to balance relations with Israel while being mindful of Arab concerns.

Energy security and diaspora safety will remain key factors influencing India's strategy towards West Asia.

Regional Multilateralism and India’s Involvement: Arab League–OIC censure and GCC’s defense discussions indicate that Arab unity is reemerging.

India, with significant economic interests in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait, cannot seem apathetic to regional issues.

India might have to enhance its involvement in initiatives such as the India–GCC FTA negotiations and broaden strategic discussions beyond just bilateral relationships.