Politics over the War in Iran: Amidst Criticism of India's Stance, Tharoor States—"This Is Not Cowardice, But Responsible Diplomacy"

Divergent opinions have emerged within the Congress party itself regarding the Indian government’s silence on the conflict in West Asia. While Congress MP Shashi Tharoor defended the government’s stance, characterizing it as “responsible diplomacy,” Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party, termed this very silence an “abdication of responsibility.”

Foreign Policy Decisions Are Not Based Solely on Morality: Tharoor

In an article, Shashi Tharoor argued that even though this war violates international law and contravenes India’s core principles—sovereignty, non-violence, and peaceful resolution—decisions in foreign policy cannot be based solely on moral considerations. He stated that India must adopt a balanced approach, keeping in mind its national interests, strategic partnerships, and regional stability. According to Tharoor, the government’s silence is not an act of cowardice, but rather a calculated strategy; often, diplomatic channels can be kept open without issuing any formal statements.

Tharoor further noted that India has significant interests at stake in West Asia—including trade worth approximately $200 billion, energy supplies, and the presence of nearly 9 million Indians—and consequently, any strong public statement could jeopardize these interests. Citing India’s defense and technological ties with the United States, he remarked that it would be imprudent to jeopardize these relationships by delivering moralistic speeches.

Silence Is Not Neutrality, But an Abdication of Responsibility: Sonia

Conversely, in her own article, Sonia Gandhi raised sharp questions regarding the government’s silence. She asserted that India’s silence on grave international developments—such as the assassination of a top Iranian leader—does not constitute neutrality, but rather an abdication of responsibility. According to her, such incidents pose a serious challenge to the global order and international law, and a nation like India ought to adopt a clear and unequivocal stance on them.

What Did Tharoor Say Regarding the Criticism of the Government?

While expressing partial agreement with the views of Sonia Gandhi and other critics—acknowledging that the war is indeed unjustifiable—Tharoor also clarified that it is inappropriate to criticize the government. He argued that decisions in foreign policy are formulated with due consideration for pragmatic realities and long-term national interests. Citing Jawaharlal Nehru’s policy of Non-Alignment, he stated that India has always struck a balance between principle and pragmatism, and that in the contemporary era, ‘multi-alignment’ represents an extension of this very philosophy.

In conclusion, Tharoor remarked that India’s silence does not signify support for the war, but rather reflects an understanding that restraint is essential for safeguarding national interests—and this, he noted, is the hallmark of responsible diplomacy.