India finds itself in a delicate position as tensions between Israel and Iran escalate, given its close but distinct strategic relationships with both countries. Top government sources told India Today that India’s military ties with Israel and Iran are shaped by its core national interests – primarily defence, energy security and regional stability. With the conflict showing no signs of easing, India is carefully navigating its position, focusing on diplomacy and strategic autonomy to safeguard its long-term interests.
India’s defence relationship with Israel has grown steadily over the years. Israel is now one of India’s top defence suppliers, providing drones, radar systems and missile defence technologies such as the Barak-8. Both countries also collaborate on counter-terrorism, joint military exercises and defence innovation, making Israel a critical partner in India’s national security framework.
In contrast, India’s relationship with Iran is largely shaped by historical and cultural ties and its role in India’s energy and trade security. The Chabahar port, developed with Indian investment, serves as a vital link for trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia, circumventing Pakistan. Although direct military cooperation is limited, India and Iran have engaged in joint efforts on maritime security and anti-piracy operations in the region.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran presents a complex foreign policy challenge for India. The Indian government has called for restraint from both sides and pushed for diplomatic engagement. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has spoken to his counterparts in both Israel and Iran, conveying global concerns and stressing the urgency of returning to the dialogue table.
India’s broader approach is driven by its policy of strategic autonomy – ensuring balanced relations with both countries without being drawn into regional conflicts. Stability in West Asia is crucial for India, especially given its reliance on Iranian oil and the threat to its economic interests from prolonged instability.
Reflecting its neutral stance, India has distanced itself from a recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation statement that criticised Israel’s military operations against Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs has reiterated India’s consistent call for dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful resolution of conflicts in the region. This posture underscores India’s effort to uphold neutrality while preserving its partnerships and regional influence.
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