Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, has alleged that India is “violating its obligations under international law” through its continued association with Israel, including defence ties and alleged arms exports during the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
In an interview published in The Hindu, Ms. Albanese said India, like other countries supporting Israel, could face legal and moral responsibility under international law frameworks. Referring to proceedings before the International Court of Justice, she stated that states are obligated not to aid or assist what has been termed an illegal occupation, including through trade or transfer of weapons.
“The legal responsibilities are clear,” she said, adding that in an “ideal world”, countries supporting Israel’s actions could face judicial scrutiny. She further suggested that individuals authorising such policies may also incur criminal liability under certain legal systems.
Her remarks come against the backdrop of deepening India-Israel ties, including the elevation of relations to a “Special Strategic Partnership” following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Israel earlier this year. During the visit, Mr. Modi highlighted growing cooperation in defence, technology and cultural exchanges.
Ms. Albanese criticised this engagement, describing it as inconsistent with India’s historical legacy of anti-colonial struggle and its contributions to the development of international law. She said India’s position reflects a “moral responsibility” in addition to legal obligations, arguing that its current stance represents a departure from principles associated with decolonisation and global justice.
The Special Rapporteur also referred to a report she presented to the UN Human Rights Council in March, which examined allegations of torture and broader human rights violations in Palestinian territories. While the report focuses on Israel’s conduct, she argued that third-party states enabling such actions—through political, economic or military support—bear indirect responsibility.
Highlighting India specifically, she pointed to claims that defence supplies continued during the Gaza conflict and noted that India’s Supreme Court had declined to intervene in a petition seeking a halt to such exports. She described this as part of a broader pattern of support that raises questions under international humanitarian and human rights law.Ms. Albanese also drew comparisons between India and other countries such as Italy, stating that governments in both nations have extended support to Israel despite mounting international criticism. However, she remarked that India faces its own internal challenges, including socio-economic vulnerabilities, which may limit public engagement with international issues.
On the broader implications, she warned that continued support by major states risks undermining the international legal order established after decolonisation. “India and Israel… are contributing to the decay of the international system,” she said, urging countries to adhere to established legal norms.
The Ministry of External Affairs has not publicly responded to the specific allegations raised in the interview. India has consistently maintained that its relations with Israel are part of a broader, independent foreign policy framework, while also expressing support for a two-state solution and humanitarian assistance to Palestinians.
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