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India faces tough questions over its stance on the West Asia crisis. Jaishankar defended a balanced approach while criticizing Pakistan’s mediatory role, as Opposition leaders questioned government silence, energy concerns, and shifting geopolitical dynamics impacting India’s interests.
Minister of External Affairs of India, S. Jaishankar (Image Source: Internet)
New Delhi: Amidst the ongoing tensions in West Asia and the US-Iran conflict, a crucial all-party meeting was held in India. During this meeting, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar issued a strong statement regarding Pakistan's role, going so far as to label it a "broker." He asserted that Pakistan has been playing the role of an intermediary between the United States and Iran since as early as 1981, reports Dynamite News correspondent.
The meeting was chaired by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and was attended by most opposition parties. The proceedings began with a presentation by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, following which Jaishankar and Petroleum Minister Hardeep Puri responded to questions raised by the opposition.
The opposition raised questions regarding why Pakistan's role in the dialogue between the US and Iran appeared to be growing. In response, Jaishankar stated that this was nothing new. He pointed out that, back in 1971, Pakistan had also played a role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and China.
He further emphasized that India never engages in the politics of "brokerage" but rather adheres to its own independent and balanced foreign policy.
Jaishankar clarified that approximately 10 million Indians reside in West Asia; consequently, India must take steps with great deliberation and caution. India is in a unique position to engage in dialogue with all parties—the US, Iran, and Israel—a capability that constitutes one of its greatest strengths.
Petroleum Minister Hardeep Puri stated that India possesses strategic oil reserves sufficient for 74 days, implying that there is no immediate major crisis. Although the supply cycle for LPG has extended from 20 days to 45 days, the situation is expected to return to normalcy soon.
The opposition accused the government of maintaining a "silence" on the issue. It asked: Why did India not offer an explicit reaction regarding the attack on Iran and the assassination of its Supreme Leader? Was the timing of the Prime Minister's visit to Israel appropriate?
The Congress and other parties termed the meeting "unsatisfactory" and demanded a detailed discussion on the issue in Parliament.
Jaishankar stated that India's policy is clear—to establish peace through dialogue and diplomacy. He also noted that two Indian vessels have recently passed safely through the Strait of Hormuz, and the remaining vessels are expected to return soon as well.
