Title: Iran & Israel have been our friends, all we can do is observe: Tharoor
The conflict between Iran and Israel has been making headlines globally, with over 650 people killed so far. The situation has been escalating, and the international community is closely watching the developments. In the midst of this crisis, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has made some significant comments, stating that both Iran and Israel have been friends of India, and all we can do is observe with attention and concern.
Tharoor’s statement highlights the complex nature of international relations, where countries often maintain friendships and alliances with multiple nations, even if they have differing opinions or conflicts with each other. In the case of India, Tharoor is correct that both Iran and Israel have been friends of the country. India has historically maintained good relations with Iran, particularly in the energy sector, with Iran being one of India’s largest oil suppliers. On the other hand, India has also maintained diplomatic ties with Israel, with the two countries sharing a strong relationship in areas such as trade, technology, and defense.
However, the conflict between Iran and Israel is a significant concern for India, particularly in the context of its own strategic interests. India has been trying to balance its relationships with both countries, while also maintaining good relations with the United States, which has traditionally been a close ally of Israel. In recent years, India has also increased its engagement with Iran, particularly in the context of the Chabahar port project, which aims to connect India to Central Asia and Europe through Iran.
The conflict between Iran and Israel has been sparked by a series of rocket attacks by Iran-backed forces on Israeli military bases and civilians, which Israel has responded to with airstrikes on Iranian targets in Syria. The conflict has escalated rapidly, with both sides exchanging blows and accusing each other of aggression. The international community has been trying to intervene, with the United States, Russia, and the European Union all calling for a de-escalation of tensions.
Tharoor’s statement that all India can do is observe with attention and concern is a pragmatic assessment of the situation. While India may have diplomatic ties with both countries, it is not a party to the conflict and does not have the military capability to intervene. Instead, India is likely to focus on maintaining good relations with both countries, while also engaging with the international community to try to resolve the conflict peacefully.
In recent years, India has been increasingly involved in international efforts to resolve conflicts and promote peace and stability in the region. India has been a key player in the Astana process, which aims to resolve the Syrian conflict, and has also been involved in efforts to promote a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Yemen.
In the context of the conflict between Iran and Israel, India’s priorities will likely be to maintain good relations with both countries, while also engaging with the international community to try to resolve the conflict peacefully. India will also be closely watching the developments in the region, particularly in the context of its own strategic interests.
Tharoor’s statement is a reflection of India’s pragmatic approach to international relations, where the country seeks to maintain good relations with multiple nations, even if they have differing opinions or conflicts with each other. India’s approach is based on a recognition that international relations are complex and multifaceted, and that countries must often navigate multiple relationships and alliances to achieve their goals.
In conclusion, Tharoor’s statement that Iran and Israel have been friends of India, and all we can do is observe with attention and concern, is a pragmatic assessment of the situation. India’s priorities will likely be to maintain good relations with both countries, while also engaging with the international community to try to resolve the conflict peacefully. The conflict between Iran and Israel is a significant concern for India, particularly in the context of its own strategic interests, and the country will be closely watching the developments in the region.
