Palestinian writer Abdulla Moaswes expressed concerns about a growing alliance between Israel and India, which he claims is co-opting Baloch separatists for geopolitical purposes, as highlighted in an article by Al Jazeera.
Moaswes pointed to the Balochistan Studies Project (BSP), initiated by the pro-Israel Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI), as evidence of foreign interference. In the following discussion, we will examine Moaswes’ claims, the implications of the BSP, and the surrounding regional dynamics, drawing support from sources at Al Jazeera and MEMRI.
Moaswes highlighted MEMRI’s BSP, announced on June 12, 2025, which aims to monitor Balochistan, described as an “outpost to counter Iran and Pakistan.” He argued that framing Balochistan as a Western ally overlooks issues of corporate resource extraction and ecological damage, revealing colonial undertones. Founded in 1998 by former Israeli intelligence officer Yigal Carmon, MEMRI’s pro-Israel stance and selective translations have led to suspicions of manipulation.
MEMRI’s Role and Baloch Engagement
MEMRI appointed Mir Yar Baloch, a self-proclaimed Baloch political scientist, as BSP’s special adviser. Yar Baloch’s May 2025 X post declaring Balochistan’s independence and praising India’s Narendra Modi, claiming support from “60 million Baloch patriots,” raised eyebrows. Analysts see this as Israel’s attempt to engage Baloch separatists, leveraging India’s growing partnership to challenge Iran and Pakistan.
Moaswes connected the BSP to Israel’s strategy of influencing South Asian secessionist movements, noting its 2020 normalisation with India. The BSP’s emphasis on countering Iran’s nuclear ambitions aligns with the geopolitical objectives of Israel and India, which could potentially destabilise the border regions of Pakistan and Iran.
The BSP could heighten tensions in Balochistan, where separatist sentiments challenge state sovereignty. Critics of X caution against “foreign meddling,” while supporters argue it underscores Baloch grievances. Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry condemned the initiative, labelling it as “interference in internal affairs.”
Key BSP Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | June 12, 2025 |
| Organization | MEMRI, founded by Yigal Carmon |
| Objective | Monitor Balochistan, counter Iran/Pakistan |
| Adviser | Mir Yar Baloch |
Data source: MEMRI, Al Jazeera.
Moaswes’ warning about a potential Israel-India connection targeting Baloch separatists through MEMRI’s BSP highlights complex geopolitical strategies. This initiative poses a risk of escalating regional tensions.
