As tensions flare in West Asia, India is walking a diplomatic tightrope. Iran has recently called on New Delhi to condemn Israel’s airstrikes on its territory, urging India—seen globally as a rising voice of the Global South—to take a moral stand. Iran’s Deputy Ambassador to India stated that countries like India should support peace and speak out against such aggression.
However, India has so far avoided taking sides, maintaining a neutral stance. The government has only issued calls for restraint and dialogue, without directly naming either Israel or Iran. This approach reflects India’s effort to balance two crucial partnerships.
On one side, India shares a deep strategic relationship with Israel, especially in defence and technology. On the other, it has invested over $500 million in Iran’s Chabahar Port, a key trade project in the region.
These tensions have also raised questions about the future of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). With war clouds hanging over Israel, the trade route—seen as a counter to China’s Belt and Road Initiative—could face logistical hurdles. Iran, which is not part of IMEC, has long viewed the corridor with suspicion.
India recently launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate its nationals from Iran, showing concern for safety while sticking to its non-aligned diplomacy. But pressure is mounting—both internationally and domestically—for New Delhi to take a clearer stand.
For now, India continues its delicate balancing act, hoping diplomacy can prevent the conflict from spiraling further.