A heated political exchange on Wednesday emerged surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict, with leaders from various parties expressing contrasting views on the issue. Asked about NCP chief Sharad Pawar's reported statement on India's stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, "I think Sharad Pawar will send Supriya (Sule) to Gaza to fight for Hamas," as reported by news agency ANI.
Piyush-Pawar War:
The disagreement further intensified as Union Minister Piyush Goyal took to Twitter to address NCP Chief Sharad Pawar's comments on India's stance regarding a terror attack in Israel. Goyal expressed his dismay at Pawar's remarks, emphasising the need to condemn terrorism worldwide. Goyal pointed out that Pawar had held prominent positions in the government during critical security incidents.
Pawar stated on Sunday that India has always supported the Palestinian cause. He told a gathering of NCP workers in Mumbai that former Indian Prime Ministers had also "stood firmly with Palestine".
In response, the NCP provided their viewpoint on the matter. Jayant Patil, leader of the NCP's (Sharad Pawar faction), urged Goyal to read statements from the External Affairs Ministry on the Palestine issue, claiming that it would provide insight into the government's decision-making.
Political Mud-Slinging Over Israel-Hamas War:
DMK MP A Raja's recent statement on the Israel-Palestine situation garnered criticism from Tamil Nadu BJP Vice President Narayanan Thirupathy. "It is very sad, shocking and shameful. I am really astonished by the way A Raja has said. Israel has been our friend for more than 70 years now. No doubt we are friendly with Palestine also," he was quoted as saying by ANI.
However, DMK leader TKS Elangovan offered an alternative perspective, remarking, "We had accepted Palestine when it was formed earlier... When a small country is put under pressure naturally all non-aligned countries should support that country. I think this is what he meant..."
In response, DMK MP A Raja defended his position, saying, "India has never supported Israel. We have supported Palestine only. Whichever country is being oppressed, we need to support that country only, that is the right thing to do. That is the policy of non-aligned countries."
After receiving a phone call from his Israeli counterpart, Prime Minister Modi reiterated his position on October 10. The Prime Minister stated that the people of India stood firmly with Israel and condemned terrorism in all of its forms.