Jaishankar Defends India as Opposition Targets Pak Mediation in West Asia
Jaishankar Defends India as Opposition Targets Pak Mediation in West Asia
Jaishankar argues India’s stance is balanced amid opposition questions on Pakistan mediation and West Asia dynamics, citing energy and security measures.
Speaking at an all-party meeting on the West Asia crisis, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar countered Opposition charges that Pakistan has a central role in mediating between the U.S. and Iran. He described Pakistan as a 'dalal' and reminded the house that Islamabad has long been involved in such mediation since 1981. The day’s discussions, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, focused on how the latest developments in West Asia could affect India’s interests.
Jaishankar stressed that India must balance its diplomatic lines because of nearly a crore Indians living in West Asia, urging that New Delhi speak to all sides to protect strategic and economic interests. He highlighted that two Indian ships were allowed to sail through the Strait of Hormuz, with 18 more in the region expected to reach Indian shores soon, signalling a continued ability to safeguard energy and trade routes even as tensions persist.
He noted that the U.S. remains India’s biggest trading partner, while Israel stands as a key technology partner. He reminded the gathering that U.S. sanctions on India have a long history and that New Delhi has never halted imports of Russian oil entirely. He also pointed to energy security measures welcomed by the government, citing a 74-day strategic petroleum reserve and an LPG supply cycle that has stabilised from 20 days to 45 days.
On the opposition’s criticism of silence on the assassination of Iran’s late Supreme Leader and on the timing of Modi’s Tel Aviv visit, Jaishankar defended the government’s approach, arguing there was nothing new about Pakistan’s role in the region and that India’s position remains balanced. He asserted that Pakistan has been used by the U.S. since 1981 to influence events in West Asia and that India will continue to engage with all sides to safeguard its interests.
The all-party meeting drew attendance from most major parties except the Trinamool Congress, highlighting the high political temperature surrounding West Asia developments. As the crisis deepens, the government’s message focused on strategic autonomy, energy security, and maintaining open channels with international partners.
