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Amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, the Israeli Embassy in New Delhi has made an unusual request to the Delhi Police: access to their shooting range for training their security personnel. This request, currently under review, marks a significant development, as it is the first instance of an embassy seeking such a privilege from Indian authorities. The Israeli Embassy's letter, received on September 23rd by the Delhi Police's security division, outlines their need for practice at the shooting range located at New Police Lines, managed by the Delhi Police Academy.
While the embassy did not disclose the specific reasons for the request or the number of personnel involved, the timing coincides with the heightened security measures implemented around the Israeli Embassy in New Delhi, following recent incidents. In recent years, two low-intensity explosions have occurred near the embassy, the first on January 29, 2021, and the second on December 26, 2023. While neither resulted in injuries, both remain unresolved. This, along with the escalating situation in West Asia, has prompted the Delhi Police and central security agencies to bolster security around Israeli facilities and individuals across India.
The Delhi Police are currently deliberating on the Israeli Embassy's request. While there's a strong likelihood it will be declined, given the unprecedented nature of the request, the final decision remains pending. The situation highlights the complex realities of diplomatic security, especially in volatile regions, where the protection of foreign diplomatic missions requires careful consideration and coordination between different authorities. The outcome of this request will not only impact the security of the Israeli Embassy but also set a precedent for future interactions between foreign diplomatic missions and Indian authorities regarding security protocols and training.