India significant arms exporter to Israel since Oct 7: Amnesty report
UPSC / SSC current affairs note
Why in news
Amnesty International's report 'Made in India' reveals India has become a significant arms exporter to Israel since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. This raises questions about India's stance on the Gaza conflict and its human rights commitments.
Background
India traditionally has strong defence ties with Israel, a major arms supplier to India. However, India's own defence exports have grown, and this report highlights a new dimension of India-Israel defence cooperation post-October 7.
Key facts
India exported at least 2,596 shipments of small arms, ammunition, and military vehicles to Israel since October 2023.
Exports include machine gun parts, artillery shells, and drone warheads.
Amnesty International released the report titled 'Made in India: The Supply of Weapons and Ammunitions to Israel'.
The report follows the Hamas-led October 7 attack on Israel.
India's arms exports to Israel have been described as 'significant' by Amnesty.
Prelims pointers
- Amnesty International: international NGO focused on human rights.
- October 7, 2023: Hamas attack on Israel.
- India-Israel defence relations: strategic partnership.
- Defence exports: India's policy of promoting indigenous defence manufacturing.
Mains angles
- GS2: India-Israel relations – strategic and defence cooperation.
- GS2: Human rights – India's arms exports to conflict zones and international law.
- GS3: Defence – India's defence export policy and its implications.
- GS2: International relations – India's stance on Israel-Palestine conflict.