CPI(M) Condemns Gaza Offensive, Highlights Palestinian Symbol ‘Keffiyeh

Speedy Summary

• The 24th congress of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI[M]) passed a resolution supporting palestine and condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza, which they termed “genocidal.”
• CPI(M) delegates wore keffiyehs,a symbol of Palestinian resistance,and echoed chants such as “From the river to the sea,Palestine will be free.”
• Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan affirmed support for Palestine, both through visuals at the event and on social media.
• the resolution criticized Israel’s military actions following Hamas’ October 2023 attack and stated over 50,021 Palestinians had been killed.
• CPI(M) leaders condemned BJP-led India’s foreign policy for deviating from its traditional pro-Palestinian stance by abstaining or voting against UN ceasefire resolutions.
• Keffiyehs were highlighted as symbols of Palestinian identity that have gained global prominence during the Israel-Hamas conflict.

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Indian Opinion Analysis

The CPI(M)’s strong presentation of solidarity with Palestine reflects ideological opposition to India’s perceived shift in foreign policy under the current goverment. By donning keffiyehs and passing this resolution unanimously,they signal alignment with historical narratives that champion non-aligned movements and wider solidarity among developing nations. However, these symbolic gestures may have limited diplomatic impact unless reinforced by multilateral Indian engagement on Middle Eastern issues.

Domestically, this event could widen debates around how India balances its nuanced position between old alliances favoring Palestine and new partnerships aligning with Israel.Such discussions highlight evolving challenges for India’s established foreign policy ethos amidst competitive global alignments in a polarized geopolitical landscape.