Modi claims to have influenced Netanyahu to stop Gaza bombing during Ramadan

A meme of BJP’s election was circulating during the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections, showing a woman with tears in her eyes telling her father that Modi did stop the war, referring to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, drawing much trolling and laughter on social media. It was an attempt to show the country how powerful Prime Minister Narendra Modi is, suggesting he could influence world leaders to halt a war between powerful countries.

Similarly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself claimed in a recent interview on India Today TV that he employed an envoy to influence Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt bombing in Gaza during Ramadan. His statement comes after widespread condemnation from many quarters for his hateful speech targeting the Muslim community during election campaigns.

This is the first time since the election began that PM Modi has made such a claim, seemingly to defend himself against condemnation for his nefarious and divisive speech against the Muslim community. He remarked that if he were anti-Muslim, he wouldn't have sent the envoy with the message to Netanyahu. He also attacked the opposition for their allegations of communal politics.

Modi addressed these perceptions, emphasizing his practical actions in international affairs rather than the exaggerated claims circulating online.

One of the key points Modi highlighted was his intervention during the Israel-Gaza conflict. He explained that during Ramadan, he sent a special envoy to Israel to urge Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt bombings in Gaza.

According to Modi, this move was an effort to mitigate violence during a significant religious period for Muslims. He noted that although Israel made efforts to comply, clashes ultimately resumed for a brief period. This intervention, Modi argued, demonstrated his commitment to addressing humanitarian concerns, regardless of religious or political divides.

Modi's disclosure was a response to the opposition's allegations of communal politics. By revealing his behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts, he aimed to refute claims that he harbours anti-Muslim sentiments.

Modi emphasized that he refrained from publicizing these actions previously, underscoring his belief in genuine secularism over what he termed "token secularism." He criticized the previous practice of balancing visits to Israel with obligatory stops in Palestine, asserting that his standalone visits to both regions were a more honest approach.

The Prime Minister also recounted a memorable diplomatic incident involving Jordan and Palestine. En route to Palestine, Jordan’s president, a direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad, insisted on hosting Modi and providing a helicopter for his journey. This gesture of hospitality, coupled with coordination from Israeli flight attendants, highlighted the unique diplomatic relationships Modi has cultivated. He attributed such instances to his good intentions and a commitment to sincere diplomacy.

Regarding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Modi stressed India's balanced stance. He stated that both Russia and Ukraine trust India's impartiality and willingness to speak truthfully. Modi cited his interactions with President Vladimir Putin, asserting that he would not hesitate to advise against war despite their friendly relations. This balanced approach, he argued, reflects India's principled foreign policy.

Modi also addressed criticism from Western countries over India's continued oil purchases from Russia amid the conflict. He defended this decision, emphasizing India's need for affordable energy and asserting his government's transparency in such transactions. Modi highlighted that India would prioritize its national interests without succumbing to external pressures, underscoring his administration's independent foreign policy.

Modi also mentioned the recent Chabahar Port deal between India and Iran. Despite the region's volatility, India remains committed to making decisions based on its own interests rather than the influence of external parties. This stance further illustrates Modi's approach to maintaining India's sovereignty in international relations.

Modi's interview appears to be a strategic move to counteract the negative impact of his inflammatory speeches during the election campaign. By emphasizing his diplomatic achievements and balanced approach to global issues, he seeks to reinforce his image as a capable and unbiased leader on the world stage. This narrative aims to mitigate the backlash from his communal rhetoric and to highlight his efforts to maintain India's standing and influence in international affairs.