On September 9, 2025, AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi strongly criticized the Indian government’s timing in signing a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) with Israel. He took to X (formerly Twitter) to denounce the agreement, calling it “despicable” given the ongoing humanitarian situation in Gaza, which he described as comprising genocide, ethnic cleansing, and famine (The Siasat Daily, Deccan Chronicle).
In his post, Owaisi wrote:
“It is despicable that the Modi govt has signed a Bilateral Investment Treaty with Israel at a time when Israel is overseeing genocide, ethnic cleansing & famine of Gaza… The person seated next to [Finance Minister] Nirmala Sitharaman believes that it is ‘just and moral’ to starve Gazans. Arrest warrant applications against him are pending with the ICC. Supporting a genocidal government cannot be in national interest.” (The Siasat Daily)
His remarks were accompanied by a media photograph showing the investment treaty being signed by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and an unnamed Israeli counterpart, which underscores Owaisi’s argument about India’s moral alignment.
Context & Significance
- The BIT is intended to promote and protect investments between India and Israel, aiming to deepen economic ties. However, critics argue that entering into such agreements during a humanitarian crisis undermines India’s principled stance (The Siasat Daily).
- Owaisi’s critique highlights the tension between economic diplomacy and ethical accountability—raising questions about India’s approach to global partnerships amid complex conflicts.
