When the stakes draw geopolitical ties tightrope-like, Modi’s phone call with Netanyahu teeter-totters diplomacy and conflict.
At a Glance
- Prime Minister Modi urged “early restoration of peace” amid fears of conflict escalation.
- India discusses concerns with Netanyahu amid Israel-Iran tension.
- The conflict may impact India’s strategic interests, with oil prices spiking.
- India balances relations between Israel and the BRICS, namely Iran.
The Call for Peace Amidst Turbulence
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the “early restoration of peace” in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, amid growing fear of conflict between Israel and Iran. The call highlighted India’s concerns about the region’s stability and reiterated its support for a diplomatic resolution. Israel launched “Operation Rising Lion,” targeting Iran’s nuclear sites, to curb Iran’s growing nuclear capabilities. Netanyahu’s justification rests on intelligence about Iran nearing nuclear weapon capacity.
India has expressed keen concern over Israel’s offensive and Iran’s aggressive response, advocating for restraint. The diplomatic ties Modi maintains can be likened to a tightrope walk between powerful nations. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) made it clear that India is ready to support conflict resolution through dialogue, positioning itself as a mediator amid tense geopolitical waters.
Economic Ripples and Diplomatic Equilibrium
The conflict poses potential risks to India’s economy, adding urgency to Modi’s restrained calls for peace. As Navdeep Suri remarked, “Just this morning, as the news came in, the oil prices rose by 15 percent.” Such spikes dent the national economy and amplify vested interests in the Strait of Hormuz, a pivotal channel for energy supplies. While India’s investments in the Chabahar port project underscore its interest in Iran’s stability, this situation may unravel more than just oil prices.
“Just this morning, as the news came in, the oil prices rose by 15 percent” – Navdeep Suri.
India’s response indicates a stronger lean towards Israel, probably reinforced since the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel by Hamas. Subsequently, Modi and his party unequivocally condemned Hamas, signaling solidarity with Israel and highlighting the historical military support from Israel during the 1999 Kargil War. Conversations between Modi and Netanyahu symbolize efforts to stabilize sensitive dynamics amidst Iran’s BRICS affiliation.
Dual Interests: Diplomacy and Strategic Alliances
India’s diplomatic canvas stretches as Modi’s External Affairs Minister J. Jaishankar separately engaged with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, illustrating India’s diplomatic balancing act. Yet, Modi’s unequivocal stand with Israel, echoing on humanitarian grounds post the Hamas attacks, adds a new dimension to India’s geopolitical stance. Modi’s exertion of influence could very well orchestrate a more normalized dialogue, adhering to a peaceful global order.
“Received a phone call from PM @netanyahu of Israel. He briefed me on the evolving situation. I shared India’s concerns and emphasized the need for early restoration of peace and stability in the region” – Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Modi’s dialogue with Netanyahu unravels as a chessboard maneuver: maintain regional equilibrium while sidestepping alliances’ contentious issues. India’s geopolitical navigation aims to elevate regional conversations toward peace and cooperation. This underscores India’s broader diplomatic mission—to foster peaceful yet strategic engagements across a myriad of international dimensions.
