Israel’s recent decision to outright reject the United States’ proposal for a ceasefire at the United Nations is not just an act of defiance, but a calculated display of strategic autonomy. In an unprecedented move, Israel, long seen as a staunch ally of the US, signals a new phase of independence. This refusal isn’t merely a difference in tactics, but rather a reflection of Israel’s growing confidence to chart its own course, even at the expense of souring relations with its most loyal supporter. At the crux of Israel’s stance is the harsh reality of its geopolitical environment. Surrounded by hostile Islamic nations that harbour militant groups such as Hamas, the country’s rejection of any pause in military action is a testament to its unshakable commitment to national security. While critics might see Israel’s boldness as reckless, the country’s military superiority, sophisticated intelligence networks, and unmatched technological prowess provide the backbone of its defiance. Israel’s defense forces, recognized globally for their precision and might, operate on the principle of overwhelming force. The Iron Dome, its missile defense system, along with Mossad’s feared intelligence network, gives Israel the edge to neutralize threats with surgical efficiency. Unlike other nations that are bound by diplomatic considerations, Israel acts with the singular focus of self-preservation. Ceasefire? In Israel’s calculation, that’s just a breather for its enemies to regroup. The calculus is simple: strike decisively, or face even deadlier threats later.
From Israel’s perspective, Hamas and its backers in countries like Iran are relentless foes. A ceasefire isn’t just a temporary cessation of violence—it’s a strategic mistake that could provide adversaries the time they need to rebuild and rearm. Therefore, Washington’s calls for restraint, often made from the comfort of distance, seem naïve and out of touch with the brutal realities Israel faces on the ground. The current leadership under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is emblematic of Israel’s growing willingness to prioritize its security over appeasing international allies. Backed by strong domestic support, Netanyahu’s government has demonstrated that Israel is no longer content to play second fiddle to global powers, even to the US. This decision to reject the US proposal underscores a pivotal shift in Israel’s approach: in matters of survival, it must act alone if necessary. But Israel’s confidence doesn’t come out of thin air. The Abraham Accords, which have normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations, have altered the dynamics of the region. Israel, once isolated, now finds itself with a few allies in the Arab world, including the UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco. These new alliances weaken the traditional Arab solidarity against Israel and give the Jewish state the space it needs to act with greater boldness against groups like Hamas. The lesson is clear: Israel isn’t afraid of standing on its own when its survival is on the line. Now, as we examine this shift in Israeli policy, we must ask ourselves whether India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is drawing inspiration from Israel’s playbook. Modi’s aggressive modernization of India’s defense infrastructure, coupled with his efforts to bolster the nation’s economy, mirrors the Israeli model of combining military strength with economic resilience.
India, like Israel, faces threats from hostile neighbours. For decades, Pakistan has remained a thorn in India’s side, supported by its all-weather ally, China. However, the threat landscape has evolved, with China gaining access to military assets in Sri Lanka, encroaching in the Indian Ocean, and strategically positioning itself in Nepal by backing a Marxist government. China’s Belt and Road Initiative has further solidified its influence in Afghanistan, and its investments in Bangladesh, coupled with US attempts to back Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, are adding layers of complexity to India’s geopolitical challenges. Modi’s push for economic growth, aiming to turn India into a $3 trillion economy by 2026, is part of this larger strategy. Like Israel, which has used its economic strength to maintain military superiority, India under Modi seeks to combine economic progress with military might to counteract the threats it faces. India’s defense modernization and its growing economic stature are intertwined in the same way that Israel’s economy supports its unparalleled military edge. The question remains: is India on the path to becoming a regional power that, like Israel, is willing to chart its own course irrespective of international pressures? Modi’s moves in the last decade suggest that India is no longer content to be a passive player on the global stage. With increasing military investments, strategic alliances, and a robust economic agenda, Modi’s India is building a fortress of self-reliance, much like Israel has done over the decades. In the face of hostile neighbours, India is showing signs of adopting a similar doctrine to Israel’s—where survival, national security, and autonomy take precedence over diplomatic niceties. As Israel boldly rejects a US-backed ceasefire, one can’t help but draw parallels to India’s own journey of defiance, strength, and strategic independence. Just like Israel, India appears prepared to act decisively when its sovereignty is at stake, no matter who stands in opposition.
