Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has consistently criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza, highlighting her strong stance against the Netanyahu government. Her recent remarks denouncing the Israeli offensive as “barbaric” and calling for global condemnation reflect her deep concerns over the ongoing conflict.
During a recent address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized his goal of “total victory” against Hamas, describing the conflict as a “clash between barbarism and civilization.” Priyanka Gandhi countered this narrative, labeling Netanyahu's government as barbaric and condemning the widespread support it receives from the Western world. She urged the global community to speak out against the atrocities in Gaza and demanded an end to the violence.
Priyanka’s vocal stance comes as she prepares for her electoral debut in Wayanad, Kerala, a constituency with a significant Muslim population. Her continuous criticism of Israel contrasts with the more balanced approach of her party, the Congress. While Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has condemned both Hamas' attacks and Israel's military response, Priyanka has been unequivocal in her condemnation of the Israeli government’s actions.
Priyanka’s strong statements are rooted in her family’s historical ties with the Palestinian cause. The Nehru-Gandhi family had a close relationship with Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, who considered Indira Gandhi a sister and mourned publicly at her funeral. Sonia Gandhi has also been vocal about the Palestinian plight, criticizing Israel’s military actions in Gaza as disproportionate and brutal.
The Congress party, historically supportive of the Palestinian cause, has faced internal debates on its stance. Initially, the party refrained from naming Hamas or using the term "terror" to describe their attack on Israel, but later condemned the Hamas attack while also criticizing Israel’s military actions.
As the conflict continues, Priyanka Gandhi’s consistent and strong criticism of the Israeli government underscores her commitment to advocating for the rights of Palestinians and calling for international intervention to stop the violence.