Opposition leaders voiced criticism towards the Union government’s handling of the escalating crisis in West Asia following a statement by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in the Rajya Sabha. Congress MP J.B. Mather highlighted the tense global situation, particularly in the Middle East, emphasizing the need for serious parliamentary discussions on the matter.
Expressing similar concerns, CPI(M) MP John Brittas strongly condemned the government’s approach to the crisis, accusing it of maintaining silence during a crucial geopolitical juncture. Jaishankar, in his address to the House, mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia, given the significant number of Indian citizens residing and working in the Gulf region.
During the session, Leader of Opposition (LoP) Mallikarjun Kharge attempted to raise the issue of Indian nationals’ deaths in the conflict, leading to protests from Treasury Bench members. Jaishankar explained that the conflict originated from US-Israeli strikes on Iran, causing widespread damage and casualties among senior leaders of the Islamic regime, leading to escalating tensions across multiple countries in the region.
The minister emphasized the government’s stance on the crisis, stressing the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and the respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states involved. He also informed the House that the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Modi, had reviewed the situation, acknowledging the challenges faced by Indians in the region.
