How is India Balancing Its Diplomacy Amid Rising Iran-Israel Conflicts?

New Delhi, June 17 (NationPress) Amidst intensifying tensions between Iran and Israel, India is skillfully navigating a complex diplomatic landscape, striving to maintain robust relationships with both countries while fostering regional stability.

In an interview with IANS, retired Indian Air Force (IAF) Officer and defense analyst Wing Commander Praful Bakshi (retired) stated, "India imports a considerable amount of oil from Iran and has historically enjoyed friendly relations with Tehran. The two nations have collaborated across various sectors."

"While Iran did not back us during the India-Pakistan conflict, as tensions rise in West Asia, Iran anticipates India's support. At the same time, Israel—a key strategic and defense ally of India—is also looking for New Delhi's backing," he elaborated.

Regarding India's current diplomatic stance amidst escalating tensions in the West Asian region, retired Wing Commander Bakshi remarked that India is currently walking a tightrope, aiming to maintain a balanced position.

"If India can play a role in de-escalation, it will signify a major diplomatic triumph for the country and foster peace in the region," he added.

Reflecting on the historical ties between Iran and Israel, retired Wing Commander Bakshi noted, "These two nations were allies during the Iran-Iraq War (1978–88), with Israel reportedly providing Iran with weapons, missiles, and spare aircraft parts to counter Iraq."

"During this period, Israel's intelligence agency, Mossad, established a significant network within Iran. However, after the 1979 Islamic Revolution and the removal of the Shah, relations soured dramatically," he pointed out.

Discussing the backdrop of the ongoing conflict that ignited when Hamas launched a series of terror attacks against Israeli civilians on October 7, 2023, retired Wing Commander Bakshi explained, "The current violence escalated following the Hamas assault on Israel, resulting in horrific acts including the rape and murder of Israeli civilians."

"Iran has expressed its support for Hamas, thereby reinforcing the regional anti-Israel coalition that includes Hezbollah, the Houthis, and even implicit backing from China. Meanwhile, the U.S. and nations such as Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt have either shown support or maintained neutrality towards Israel," he observed.

In retaliation, Israel has conducted targeted operations, eliminating key figures linked to Iran and attacking suspected nuclear facilities.

As per retired Wing Commander Bakshi, "While Iran's mobilization is extensive, Israel's strikes are far more precise and targeted."