On Tuesday, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak out on the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Syed Ali Khamenei, warning that India’s silence harms its global standing. Gandhi emphasized that India must be “morally clear” and have the courage to defend international law and human lives. In a post on X, he said, “Our foreign policy is rooted in sovereignty and the peaceful resolution of disputes, and it must remain consistent.” He added that PM Modi’s silence raises questions about India’s stance on the assassination of a head of state.

Expressing concern over rising tensions in West Asia, Gandhi called for dialogue and restraint, noting that escalating hostilities between the US, Israel, and Iran threaten the region and create uncertainty for millions, including nearly a crore Indians. He condemned attacks that violate sovereignty and stressed that violence only worsens crises.

Israel carried out strikes in Iran and Beirut, prompting Iran to retaliate with attacks on US assets, including the embassy in Riyadh. Iran also claimed a large-scale missile and drone strike on a US air base in Bahrain, reportedly destroying the main command building and setting fuel tanks on fire. These events have further widened the conflict, with civilians and expatriates at risk. World leaders and international bodies are urging de-escalation, though fighting continues with no clear resolution in sight.