
Title: Iran & Israel have been our friends, all we can do is observe: Tharoor
The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has been making headlines globally, with the death toll rising to over 650 people. In the midst of this chaos, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has weighed in on the situation, expressing concern and dismay. In a recent statement, Tharoor acknowledged that both Iran and Israel have been friends to India, and urged for peace between the two nations.
Tharoor’s comments come at a time when the world is grappling with the complexities of the Middle East conflict. The situation has been exacerbated by the long-standing rivalry between Iran and Israel, which has been fueled by political and ideological differences. The recent escalation in violence has been a major concern for the international community, with many calling for a peaceful resolution.
In his statement, Tharoor emphasized the importance of India’s relationships with both Iran and Israel. “Iran and Israel have both been our friends,” he said. “Ideally, we would like peace between the two countries.” Tharoor’s comments highlight the delicate balancing act that India has to perform in its diplomatic relations with the two nations.
India’s relationship with Iran dates back to the 1950s, when the country was still under British colonial rule. Since then, India has maintained a strong connection with Iran, with ties extending to trade, energy, and strategic partnership. In recent years, India has been a key player in the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project, which aims to transport natural gas from Iran to Pakistan.
On the other hand, India’s relationship with Israel is relatively newer, dating back to the 1990s. Initially, India maintained distance from Israel due to its close ties with the Arab world. However, in the 1990s, India began to normalize its relations with Israel, with the two countries signing a series of agreements on trade, agriculture, and defense.
Tharoor’s comments also highlight the complex nature of the Middle East conflict. The ongoing violence between Iran and Israel has been fueled by a range of factors, including political ideology, religious differences, and territorial disputes. The conflict has also been exacerbated by external actors, including the United States and other Western powers, which have been accused of supporting Israel’s military actions.
In the midst of this chaos, India has maintained a neutral stance, calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has been at the forefront of efforts to promote dialogue and diplomacy between the two nations. In a recent statement, Modi called for an “immediate ceasefire” and urged both sides to “exercise restraint.”
Tharoor’s comments also highlight the challenges that India faces in maintaining its relationships with both Iran and Israel. As a secular democracy, India has a long history of maintaining good relations with a range of nations, regardless of their political or ideological leanings. However, the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has put India’s relationships with both nations to the test.
In conclusion, Shashi Tharoor’s comments highlight the complexity and sensitivity of the Middle East conflict. As a country that has maintained good relations with both Iran and Israel, India has a unique perspective on the situation. Tharoor’s emphasis on the need for peace between the two nations is a call to action for the international community, which must work together to find a lasting solution to the conflict.
News Source:
https://x.com/ANI/status/1935614383608017221