Priyanka Gandhi Slams Israel, Defends Palestinian Solidarity Amid BJP Criticism
New Delhi, March 20: Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has strongly condemned Israel’s latest airstrikes on Gaza, calling it an act of genocide and accusing the Israeli government of showing complete disregard for humanity. The latest wave of bombings, which reportedly claimed the lives of over 400 Palestinians, including 130 children, has reignited global outrage over the ongoing conflict.
Row Over Priyanka Gandhi’s ‘Palestine’ Bag
The controversy surrounding Gandhi’s vocal support for Palestine dates back to December 2024, when she was seen carrying a bag with ‘Palestine’ emblazoned on it. The bag also featured symbols, including a watermelon—an emblem widely associated with Palestinian solidarity worldwide. The image sparked a political storm, with the BJP criticizing her stance.
When questioned about the controversy, Priyanka Gandhi dismissed the BJP’s remarks, calling it an attempt to police personal choices. “Who is going to decide what clothes I wear now? Who is going to decide that? That’s typical patriarchy that you decide what women wear also. I don’t subscribe to that. I will wear what I want,” she said. “I have said many times what my beliefs are regarding this. If you look at my Twitter handle, all my comments are over there.”
Palestinian Resilience Amid ‘Unimaginable Suffering’
Expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people, Gandhi praised their resilience despite the harrowing conditions they have endured. “The bravery of the Palestinian people prevails. They have endured unimaginable suffering, yet their spirit remains resilient and unwavering,” she stated.
The airstrikes, which took place on Tuesday, marked a devastating escalation after nearly two months of relative calm following a ceasefire. Israel, however, warned that this offensive was “just the beginning,” raising fears of further bloodshed.
Truce Shattered, Blame Game Ensues
The ceasefire, in place since January, had offered a brief respite to Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, who have been suffering under relentless bombardment. The fragile truce was broken amid mutual accusations, with Israel and Hamas blaming each other for its collapse. The conflict has been ongoing since Hamas launched deadly attacks inside Israeli territory on October 7, 2023, triggering Israel’s brutal retaliation.
‘Cold-Blooded Murder,’ Says Priyanka Gandhi
Reacting to the latest airstrike, Gandhi did not mince words in her condemnation of Israel. “The cold-blooded murder of over 400 innocent civilians, including 130 children, by the Israeli government shows that humanity means nothing to them,” she declared.
She further accused Israel of lacking moral strength, stating, “Their actions reflect an inherent weakness and inability to face their own truth.”
‘Genocide Is Happening—The World Must Recognize It’
Gandhi also pointed out that individuals with a conscience, including many Israelis, are acknowledging the reality of the situation. “Whether western powers choose to recognise this or to acknowledge their collusion in the genocide of the Palestinian people or not, all citizens of the world who have a conscience (including many Israelis) see it,” she asserted.
Calling Out ‘Cowardice’ in Successive Attacks
In a scathing remark, Gandhi called Israel’s repeated airstrikes a reflection of cowardice. “The more criminally the Israeli government acts, the more they reveal themselves for the cowards they truly are,” she said.
Her comments have sparked significant discussion in political circles, with supporters applauding her stand and critics questioning the diplomatic ramifications. The intensifying violence in Gaza continues to fuel tensions, with global leaders under mounting pressure to intervene and prevent further humanitarian catastrophe.
Quotes:
🗣 “The cold-blooded murder of over 400 innocent civilians, including 130 children, by the Israeli government shows that humanity means nothing to them.” – Priyanka Gandhi Vadra
🗣 “The more criminally the Israeli government acts, the more they reveal themselves for the cowards they truly are.” – Priyanka Gandhi Vadra
🗣 “Who is going to decide what clothes I wear now? That’s typical patriarchy. I will wear what I want.” – Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on the ‘Palestine’ bag controversy
🗣 “Whether western powers choose to recognise it or not, all citizens of the world who have a conscience (including many Israelis) see that a genocide is happening.” – Priyanka Gandhi Vadra
Q&A:
Q: What did Priyanka Gandhi say about the Israeli airstrikes?
A: She called them an act of genocide and accused Israel of cold-blooded murder, particularly highlighting the deaths of innocent civilians, including children.
Q: Why was Priyanka Gandhi’s ‘Palestine’ bag controversial?
A: The bag, featuring ‘Palestine’ and solidarity symbols like a watermelon, sparked criticism from BJP leaders, who accused her of appeasement.
Q: How did Priyanka Gandhi respond to the criticism?
A: She dismissed it as patriarchal policing of personal choices, saying she will wear what she wants.
Q: What’s the current situation in Gaza?
A: A ceasefire had been in place since January 2024 but has now collapsed. Over 400 Palestinians were killed in the latest Israeli airstrikes.
Context & Background:
- The Israel-Palestine conflict has been ongoing for decades, with Gaza frequently facing military offensives.
- On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched attacks inside Israel, prompting a heavy Israeli retaliation.
- A ceasefire had been in place since January 2024, offering temporary relief, but was broken amid fresh hostilities.
- Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has been vocal about Palestinian rights, previously making headlines for carrying a ‘Palestine’ bag.
