After Iran questions India’s silence, PM Narendra Modi responds on West Asia crisis; government sources cite four instances of Khamenei’s interference between 2017 and 2024
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has publicly addressed the escalating conflict in West Asia following joint US-Israel strikes on Iran and Tehran’s appeal urging India “not to remain silent.”
Speaking at a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister Mark Carney today, Modi described the situation in West Asia as a “matter of serious concern” and reiterated India’s consistent diplomatic position.
“India stands for peace and stability. We have always called for dialogue and diplomatic channels to resolve such disputes,” the Prime Minister said.
His remarks came after Iran questioned India’s silence following the reported killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during intense military strikes.
India Monitoring Situation, Ensuring Citizens’ Safety
The Prime Minister assured that New Delhi is closely monitoring developments and maintaining communication with countries in the region to safeguard Indian nationals.
“We are working closely with every country concerned to ensure the safety and security of all Indian citizens in the region,” he stated.
A day before his statement, Modi chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security to assess the evolving crisis. He also held a telephonic conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding rising tensions.
Government Sources Flag Khamenei’s Past ‘Interference’
According to government sources, relations between Khamenei and India have remained strained in recent years. Between 2017 and 2024, he allegedly commented on or interfered in India’s internal matters on four separate occasions. Each time, the Ministry of External Affairs reportedly summoned Iranian envoys to register strong objections.
Sources indicate that these diplomatic strains have influenced India’s calibrated response to the current crisis.
Escalation in West Asia
The United States and Israel reportedly launched one of their most intense coordinated offensives against Iran in decades, targeting strategic assets and military infrastructure. Iranian retaliation allegedly included drone and missile strikes on military installations in Kuwait and Bahrain, as well as attacks in the Gulf region.
