In a significant address to the Parliament during the ongoing Budget Session, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s steadfast position on the escalating conflict in West Asia, emphasizing that the only sustainable path forward is a return to dialogue and diplomacy. Addressing the concerns of the house regarding the volatile security situation and its global repercussions, Jaishankar stated that India favors an immediate cessation of hostilities and remains deeply committed to regional peace and stability. He articulated that while the complexities of the current crisis are immense, the human cost and the potential for a wider regional conflagration necessitate an urgent diplomatic intervention by the international community. The Minister highlighted that India has consistently maintained communication with all key stakeholders in the region, advocating for restraint and the protection of civilian lives. This statement comes at a time when the conflict has threatened to disrupt global supply chains and energy security, factors that are of critical importance to India’s domestic economic stability.
Beyond the geopolitical implications, the External Affairs Minister underscored that the safety and well-being of the Indian diaspora in the Gulf remains the government’s “foremost priority.” With millions of Indian nationals residing and working in the region, the Ministry has put in place contingency plans and is operating 24/7 helplines through its embassies to ensure their security amidst the threat of airstrikes and ground offensives. Jaishankar also touched upon the broader humanitarian perspective, noting that India supports a two-state solution that addresses the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people while ensuring the security of Israel. He urged the global community to move past the rhetoric of war and focus on constructive engagement to prevent the Middle East from slipping into an irreversible cycle of violence. By positioning India as a proponent of “Vishwa Bandhu” (friend of the world), Jaishankar’s briefing sent a clear message that New Delhi is ready to support any credible peace process that prioritizes stability over military dominance