India exports rockets and explosives to Israel aimed at the Gaza genocide

India's export of military equipment to Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza has sparked significant controversy and debate. Critics argue that these exports may implicate India in potential violations of international law, including complicity in alleged war crimes.

Military Exports to Israel

Indian defense companies have been supplying various military components to Israel. Premier Explosives Limited, for instance, has exported fully assembled rocket motors and explosives like RDX and HMX, which are used in missile systems such as the Barak surface-to-air missiles. The company's executive director acknowledged increased revenues from these exports during the Gaza conflict.

Additionally, Adani Defence & Aerospace, in collaboration with Israel's Elbit Systems, operates a facility in Hyderabad that manufactures Hermes 900 drones. These drones, capable of surveillance and attack missions, have been used in various conflict zones, including Gaza. While Adani claims that exported drones are for non-combat purposes, the potential for their use in military operations remains a concern.

Legal and Ethical Concerns

Human rights activists and legal experts have raised alarms over India's arms exports to Israel. They argue that such actions may contravene India's obligations under international law, including the Genocide Convention and the Geneva Conventions. Article III of the Genocide Convention, to which India is a signatory, prohibits complicity in genocide. Activist Prashant Bhushan has emphasized that exporting arms used in potential genocidal acts could render India complicit.

A group of retired diplomats, academics, and activists filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking to halt these exports, citing violations of both international law and India's constitutional principles. However, the Supreme Court dismissed the plea, stating that matters of foreign policy fall under the purview of the executive branch.

Public and International Response

The continuation of arms exports has drawn criticism from various quarters. Prominent writer Arundhati Roy and other civil society members have called for an immediate halt to military supplies to Israel, warning that India's actions could associate it with alleged genocidal activities in Gaza.

Internationally, several countries have suspended arms exports to Israel in light of the conflict. The Dutch government, for example, halted the export of F-35 fighter jet parts, citing concerns over potential violations of international law.

India's defense exports to Israel during the Gaza conflict have ignited a complex debate involving legal obligations, ethical considerations, and foreign policy decisions. As the situation evolves, the implications of these actions on India's international standing and commitment to human rights continue to be scrutinized.