India’s Overtures in the Middle East: Hedging or Balancing Amid Partnerships

Abstract

This paper examines India’s evolving foreign policy goals in the Middle East, focusing on its economic, political, and strategic dimensions. Historically shaped by the principles of non-alignment, India’s contemporary engagements reflect a pragmatic pursuit of strategic autonomy through issue-based partnerships with diverse actors, including Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Iran. While economics remains the key driver, India's outreach reflects broader strategic considerations. This paper argues that India is positioning itself as a middle power, leveraging strategic hedging to advance its global standing without becoming entrenched in the region's complex conflicts. By examining economic interdependence, humanitarian actions, and diplomatic maneuverability, the paper illustrates how India’s role in the Middle East not only furthers its national interests but also preserves its strategic autonomy. The paper examines what factors are expanding India’s engagement with the Middle East, how New Delhi manages competing regional actors while upholding strategic autonomy, and its role as a middle power.