The current confrontation between Israel and Iran has placed India in a precarious position, considering its robust strategic ties with both nations. According to government sources, India's military links with Israel and Iran are driven by its national interests, including defense, energy security, and regional stability.
As tensions continue, India is keenly prioritizing diplomacy and strategic autonomy to continue its relationships with these nations. By doing so, it aims to safeguard its interests while promoting stability and peace in the region.
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Strengthened Indo-Israeli Partnership
Recent years have seen a considerable elevation in India's defense partnership with Israel, which has emerged as a key defense supplier to India. Both nations have collaborated on various security concerns, including counter-terrorism and defense technology. India has procured Israeli drones, radar systems, and missile defense systems like Barak-8. Joint military exercises have enhanced interoperability and reinforced their strategic alliance.
India's connection with Iran is rooted in historical and cultural ties, focusing on energy security and regional connectivity. India has invested in Iran's Chabahar Port, providing an alternative trade route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. Though military cooperation between India and Iran is limited, they have engaged in naval exercises and collaborated on maritime security, including anti-piracy operations.
Challenges for India's Foreign Policy
The Israel-Iran conflict poses significant challenges to India's foreign policy. India has called for restraint and diplomacy, urging both sides to avoid escalating tensions. India's Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar has engaged with his Israeli and Iranian counterparts, conveying international concerns and advocating for a swift return to diplomacy.
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India is emphasizing strategic autonomy to maintain relationships with both Israel and Iran while safeguarding its national interests. India's energy security relies heavily on stable relations with Iran, a major oil supplier. The conflict poses risks to regional stability, impacting India's economic and strategic interests.
India Dissociates from SCO's Statement
India has distanced itself from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's (SCO) statement criticizing Israeli military actions against Iran, reiterating its neutral stance. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the need for dialogue and diplomacy to peacefully resolve the conflict.
