Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India’s backing for Palestinians during a key diplomatic meeting, signalling New Delhi’s role in regional peace efforts amid US-led initiatives.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Arab foreign ministers in New Delhi on Saturday, January 31, 2026, and reaffirmed that India supports Palestine while welcoming US President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan. The discussions focused on deepening ties and addressing West Asia conflicts.
This stance underscores India’s longstanding commitment to a two-state solution and humanitarian aid in Palestine, which resonates across South Asia where regional stability affects trade, migration, and security dynamics. With millions of South Asians working in Arab nations, such diplomacy helps maintain economic links and counter extremism risks.
Modi Arab Meeting Details
The Modi Arab meeting occurred during the second India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, co-chaired by India and the United Arab Emirates. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar hosted the event, emphasising a comprehensive approach to end the Gaza conflict based on UN Security Council Resolution 2803.
In the meeting, Modi highlighted deep civilisational bonds between India and the Arab world. He posted on X: “I was delighted to receive the Foreign Ministers and the delegations of the League of Arab States today. The Arab world is an integral part of India’s wider neighbourhood. We share deep civilisational bonds, vibrant people-to-people connections, strong fraternal ties, and a common commitment to peace, progress, and stability. I am confident that strengthening cooperation in the fields of technology, energy, trade, and innovation will open new horizons and elevate our partnership to even greater heights.”
The Prime Minister’s Office issued a statement: “The prime minister reiterated India’s continued support for the people of Palestine and welcomed ongoing peace efforts, including the Gaza peace plan.” Modi also conveyed appreciation for the Arab League’s contributions to regional stability.
Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian, attending the gathering, told NDTV that India is “uniquely positioned to play a mediating role” in achieving lasting peace between Israel and Palestine. She added: “There is no more time for wars,” calling for dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law. Aghabekian noted India’s early aid shipments through Egypt and support for West Bank development projects, affirming that India supports Palestine through consistent humanitarian principles.
The Modi Arab meeting also touched on broader cooperation, with Modi outlining a vision for enhanced partnerships. This included commitments to deepen ties in technology and energy, areas vital for South Asian economies dependent on Arab oil imports.
Trump Gaza Peace Plan Overview
The Trump Gaza peace plan, unveiled in September 2025, comprises a 20-point proposal aimed at ending the Israel-Hamas war. It followed a ceasefire agreement signed by Israel and Hamas in October 2025, marking the first phase of de-escalation. World leaders, including Modi, welcomed the initial steps on October 9, 2025, urging fulfillment of commitments.
Key elements include hostage releases by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and Israeli military withdrawal from most of Gaza. The plan provides a pathway to long-term peace, benefiting Palestinians, Israelis, and the wider West Asia region. Modi described it as “comprehensive” on September 30, 2025, stating it offers a viable route to stability.
The plan’s second phase introduces the Board of Peace, a multinational body to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction and governance. Established with a charter signed on January 22, 2026, the Board of Peace aims to resolve global conflicts, starting with Gaza. It is chaired for life by Trump, with member states serving three-year terms unless they contribute USD 1 billion for permanent status.
Over 25 nations have joined, including Argentina, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The Board combines US political figures, international business leaders, and diplomats to guide its mission.
Board of Peace India Involvement
India received an invitation to join the Board of Peace India via a letter from Trump, conveyed by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor on January 18, 2026. The ambassador posted on Facebook: “Honored to convey POTUS invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in the Board of Peace which will bring lasting peace to Gaza. The Board will support effective governance to achieve stability and prosperity!”
New Delhi has not yet responded, weighing options amid its balancing act between Israel and Palestine. India has strengthened ties with Israel, becoming its top weapons buyer from 2020 to 2024, with bilateral trade nearing USD 5 billion annually. Yet, India supports Palestine historically, recognising the Palestine Liberation Organization in 1975 and providing USD 5 million yearly to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.
Aghabekian commented that India would decide on Board of Peace India participation “in line with its understanding of peace, international law.” Analysts note this dilemma tests India’s foreign policy, especially in South Asia where public sentiment often favours Palestine.
India operates a representative office in Ramallah and backs peace talks. Joining could enhance India’s global mediation role but risks alienating Arab partners if perceived as biased.
Background
India’s position on Palestine dates to its independence, with consistent support for self-determination. In 2020, India responded to Trump’s earlier Middle East plan by advocating a two-state solution without endorsing annexation proposals. The 2023-2025 Gaza conflict saw India send humanitarian aid worth USD 10 million, including medical supplies via Egypt.
The Trump Gaza peace plan builds on the 2020 Abraham Accords, which normalised Israel-Arab relations but sidelined Palestinians initially. The 2025 ceasefire followed intense diplomacy, with UN Resolution 2803 endorsing the framework.
South Asia’s interest stems from diaspora communities: Over 9 million Indians work in Arab countries, remitting USD 50 billion annually. Instability in West Asia disrupts these flows, impacting economies like Pakistan and Bangladesh.
What’s Next
India’s decision on the Board of Peace India could come soon, potentially during Modi’s upcoming visit to Israel. Diplomatic sources indicate consultations with Arab states continue. The Board plans its first meeting in March 2026 to outline Gaza reconstruction, estimated at USD 20 billion.
In conclusion, as global efforts intensify, India supports Palestine while engaging constructively in the Trump Gaza peace plan to foster enduring stability.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 1st, 2026
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