India's Silence on Iran Condemned: Congress Cites Indira Gandhi's Principles

Image Source: Internet

The Indian National Congress has criticized the Narendra Modi government for its 'silence' on the US and Israeli strikes against Iran. The party invoked former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's principles, citing her 1982 statement at the White House that 'one friendship shouldn't cancel another.' The Congress questioned India's lack of condemnation for the 'assassination' of senior Iranian leaders, saying that if the country speaks of sovereignty and opposes targeted killings, it must do so consistently. The party highlighted India's long-standing relationship with Iran, dating back nearly 3,000 years, and pointed out that Iran is a major oil supplier to India. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge had earlier condemned the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and emphasized the need for a principled stand on the issue. Other opposition leaders, including Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and RJD MP Manoj Jha, also criticized the Centre for its silence on the matter. In contrast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for dialogue to resolve conflicts and expressed concern over the situation in West Asia. He had earlier spoken to Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, emphasizing the safety of civilians and the need for an early cessation of hostilities. The Ministry of External Affairs has urged all sides to exercise restraint and prioritize the safety of civilians, while the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has spoken to his Israeli and Iranian counterparts, conveying India's concerns and pushing for dialogue.