Did BJP Criticize Sonia Gandhi's Remarks on Gaza and Iran?
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Synopsis
The political landscape in India is becoming increasingly polarized as the BJP takes aim at Sonia Gandhi for her comments on Gaza and Iran, while AIMIM voices its support for her stance. This divide underscores the complexities of India's foreign policy in a tumultuous region. Explore the implications of these remarks and the reactions from both sides.
Key Takeaways
- BJP criticizes Sonia Gandhi for her comments on foreign policy.
- AIMIM supports Gandhi's call for a stronger voice from India.
- Political divide over foreign policy in West Asia intensifies.
- Sonia Gandhi highlights India's historical commitment to peace.
- BJP defends its role in promoting peace amidst conflicts.
New Delhi, June 21 (NationPress) The BJP on Saturday launched a critique against Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi for her remarks regarding India’s “silence” on the ongoing turmoil in Gaza and Iran. In contrast, the AIMIM expressed support for Sonia Gandhi’s position, further deepening the political rift concerning India's foreign policy stance in West Asia.
The political confrontation ignited after Sonia Gandhi authored an article titled “It is still not too late for India’s voice to be heard” in a newspaper, where she strongly criticized the PM Modi government's inaction regarding the escalating crisis in Gaza and the recent tensions related to Iran.
In her op-ed, Sonia Gandhi accused the government of “abandoning India’s long-standing and principled commitment” to a peaceful two-nation solution concerning the Israel-Palestine conflict.
She highlighted, “New Delhi’s silence on the devastation in Gaza and now on the unprovoked escalation against Iran reflects a disturbing departure from our moral and diplomatic traditions. This represents not just a loss of voice but also a surrender of values.”
In response, BJP spokesperson Ram Kadam stated to IANS: “I think Sonia Gandhi doesn’t understand foreign policy. Either she is unaware, or she is deliberately trying to benefit one particular group. India’s role is crystal clear — we are for peace. PM Modi has always played a constructive role in global diplomacy. Where was Sonia Gandhi when the 26/11 attacks happened in Mumbai? She was silent then. Now, she’s suddenly an expert on international affairs.”
BJP leader Tuhin Sinha also criticized the Congress.
“Congress should stop preaching foreign policy. Just yesterday, Iran opened its airspace for an hour so that thousands of Indian students stranded there could return. Iran is our friend, and so is Israel. Under PM Modi’s leadership, India doesn’t take sides during conflict — we stand firmly for peace.”
He continued, “We followed the same neutral stance during the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Palestine conflict. Congress is simply trying to appease its conservative vote bank. Priyanka Gandhi even went so far as to call Israel a genocidal state, which is completely contrary to our national policy.”
Sinha further accused the Congress party of “historical hypocrisy.”
“This is the same party that embarrassed India internationally. Remember when former PM Manmohan Singh was humiliated in Sharm-el-Sheikh? Now the same Congress wants to give foreign policy lessons? Let’s not forget, when Nawaz Sharif was PM of Pakistan, he even called him 'Dehati Aurat.' Congress maintained silence even when Indian interests were compromised.”
Meanwhile, AIMIM leader Waris Pathan supported Sonia Gandhi’s concerns and called for greater transparency in India’s foreign policy.
“I respect Sonia Gandhi; she is a respected figure, though I’m not her spokesperson. But the point is, we must stand with those who genuinely support India.”
Pathan delivered a pointed critique of Israel, stating, “Believe me, come what may, Israel is never going to stand by India. If a crisis arises, Israel will repeat its past behaviour and flee. They are traitors, killers of workers, mass murderers. Why should we blindly support them?”
He further emphasized, “What harm has Iran done to India? Iran has always maintained a stable relationship with us. It’s time India clearly states its position. Our foreign minister and foreign secretary must clarify — what is India’s stand on Israel and Iran? This ambiguity is not serving the youth or the nation.”
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the complexities surrounding India's foreign policy. The exchange between BJP and Congress, alongside AIMIM's support for Sonia Gandhi, highlights the critical need for a coherent stance in international relations. In times of global unrest, India must navigate its diplomatic strategies with integrity and clarity to uphold national interests.
NationPress
21/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Sonia Gandhi criticize about the Indian government?
Sonia Gandhi criticized the Indian government's silence regarding the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Iran, suggesting it represented a departure from India's moral and diplomatic traditions.
How did the BJP respond to Sonia Gandhi's remarks?
The BJP, through spokespersons like Ram Kadam and Tuhin Sinha, defended the government's foreign policy, asserting that India stands for peace and questioning Gandhi's understanding of foreign relations.
What support did AIMIM offer to Sonia Gandhi?
AIMIM leader Waris Pathan expressed support for Sonia Gandhi's concerns and called for greater transparency in India's foreign policy, particularly regarding its relationships with Israel and Iran.
What are the implications of this political divide?
The growing divide over foreign policy may lead to increased scrutiny of India's international relations and could impact its diplomatic standing in the region.
Why is clarity in foreign policy important?
Clarity in foreign policy is essential to ensure that India's national interests are protected, especially in a volatile geopolitical landscape.
