Iran & Israel have been our friends, all we can do is observe: Tharoor
The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has been a topic of concern for many around the world. Amidst the escalating tensions, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor recently shared his thoughts on the situation, stating that both countries have been India’s friends. In an interview, he expressed the hope for peace between the two nations, while acknowledging that, for now, all India can do is observe the situation with attention and concern.
Tharoor’s remarks come at a time when the conflict between Iran and Israel has taken a devastating turn. According to reports, over 650 people have lost their lives in the violence, causing widespread destruction and displacement. The situation is dire, and the international community is urging both sides to seek a peaceful resolution.
Tharoor’s statement highlights India’s unique position in the conflict. As a country that has historically enjoyed good relations with both Iran and Israel, New Delhi is caught in the midst of a complex web of diplomatic ties. On one hand, India has been a key partner in Iran’s energy sector, with the two countries cooperating on several projects, including the development of the Chabahar port. On the other hand, India has also maintained strong ties with Israel, with the two countries engaging in significant trade and defense cooperation.
Given this complex web of relationships, Tharoor’s observation that both countries have been India’s friends is a pragmatic acknowledgment of the reality. India’s diplomatic approach has been one of maintaining good relations with all parties involved, while also advocating for peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Tharoor’s statement also underscores the limitations of India’s role in the conflict. As a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, India has been actively engaging with international efforts to resolve the crisis. However, India’s ability to influence the situation is limited, and Tharoor’s observation that all India can do is “observe with attention and concern” is a recognition of this reality.
In recent years, India’s relations with both Iran and Israel have been marked by significant developments. On the one hand, India has been a key partner in Iran’s efforts to develop its energy sector, with the two countries cooperating on several projects, including the development of the Chabahar port. On the other hand, India has also been expanding its ties with Israel, with the two countries engaging in significant trade and defense cooperation.
In 2019, India and Israel signed a comprehensive agreement on agricultural cooperation, marking a significant milestone in their relations. The agreement aimed to promote cooperation between Indian and Israeli farmers, with a focus on developing new agricultural technologies and improving crop yields. The agreement was seen as a major boost to India’s agricultural sector, which has been facing significant challenges in recent years.
In addition to agricultural cooperation, India and Israel have also been cooperating on defense and security issues. In 2019, India and Israel signed a deal to purchase 17 tanker aircraft from Israel’s Elbit Systems, marking a significant boost to India’s air force. The deal was seen as a major coup for Israel’s defense industry, which has been facing significant challenges in recent years.
India’s relations with Iran, on the other hand, have been marked by significant developments in the energy sector. In 2019, India and Iran signed a deal to develop the Chabahar port, which is expected to provide a significant boost to India’s energy sector. The port is expected to play a key role in India’s efforts to reduce its dependence on oil imports from the Middle East, and to increase its energy security.
However, India’s relations with Iran have also been marked by significant challenges in recent years. In 2018, the United States imposed sanctions on Iran, which had a significant impact on India’s energy imports from the country. India was forced to reduce its oil imports from Iran, and to find alternative suppliers.
In conclusion, Tharoor’s statement highlights India’s unique position in the conflict between Iran and Israel. As a country that has historically enjoyed good relations with both countries, India is caught in the midst of a complex web of diplomatic ties. While India’s relations with both Iran and Israel are marked by significant developments, the country’s ability to influence the situation is limited. Tharoor’s observation that all India can do is “observe with attention and concern” is a recognition of this reality.
As the situation continues to unfold, it is clear that India’s role will be limited to observing the situation with attention and concern. However, India’s diplomatic efforts will continue to focus on promoting peace and stability in the region, and on maintaining good relations with all parties involved.
