5 Ways India Manages Iran-Israel Tensions Amid Rising Strains

India faces a diplomatic balancing act between Iran and Israel amid escalating tensions. While maintaining strong ties with both nations, it must navigate the complexities of its strategic interests in oil, defense, and counterterrorism. The recent conflict highlights India’s nuanced position in the region.

CONTENTS:

• India calls Iran’s remarks unacceptable.
• India rejects Khamenei’s “misinformed” remarks.
• India balances ties with Iran, Israel.

5 Ways India Manages Iran-Israel Tensions

India calls Iran’s remarks unacceptable

India has deemed the recent remarks by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei about Indian Muslims as “unacceptable.” In a statement, the Indian foreign ministry expressed strong disapproval of Khamenei’s comments, which were made on X during the birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammed, where he linked the plight of Indian Muslims with those in Gaza.

The ministry criticized the remarks as “misinformed,” advising other countries to reflect on their own treatment of minorities before commenting on India’s internal matters.

India rejects Khamenei’s “misinformed” remarks

India has labeled the comments made by Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, regarding Indian Muslims as “unacceptable.” In a post on X marking the birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammed, Khamenei grouped Indian Muslims with those in Gaza, highlighting their hardships. India’s foreign ministry responded, stating that it “strongly deplores” the remarks, calling them “misinformed” and advising other nations to address their own record on minority issues before commenting on India’s affairs.

In his post, Khamenei emphasized the need for solidarity among Muslims, stating, “We cannot call ourselves Muslims if we ignore the suffering of Muslims in Myanmar, Gaza, India, or elsewhere,” and warned against the enemies of Islam trying to weaken the unity of the global Islamic community.

India balances ties with Iran, Israel

The comments came amidst rising tensions between Iran and Israel, a situation that has created discomfort for New Delhi. India maintains strong relations with both countries. While around 80 percent of its oil imports come from West Asia, India’s strategic ties with Israel, especially in defense and security, continue to grow.

Tehran remains a key supplier of crude oil to India, and both nations share concerns about terrorism from Pakistan and Afghanistan, along with hopes for the development of the Chabahar port. Similarly, India and Israel are united in their fight against terrorism, with both countries being affected by the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. This shared experience was one reason why India expressed early support for Israel following the October 7 Hamas attacks.