Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 23: The Congress party on Monday launched a sharp attack on the government, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of displaying selective diplomacy amid the escalating Middle East conflict. The criticism comes in response to Modi's phone conversation with newly elected Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, during which he urged Iran to de-escalate tensions.
Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Pramod Tiwari took aim at Modi for not calling out the United States or Israel, both of whom have launched recent military operations in the region.
“America is flying in B2 bombers from thousands of kilometres away — the first time such weapons are being used in this context — and you choose to send a message to Iran?” Tiwari said. “Where is your courage when it comes to condemning Israel or stopping the United States? Instead of speaking against those violating international law, you’re telling the victims to back down. This is not neutrality; it’s silence under pressure.”
Tiwari also invoked Iran’s diplomatic history with India, especially its consistent support over the Kashmir issue at international forums. “When India stood isolated on global platforms, Iran stood by us. Today, when Iran is under fire, we are turning away instead of showing gratitude and solidarity,” he added.
Congress leader Imran Masood echoed Tiwari’s sentiments, urging the government to reaffirm ties with Tehran. “Iran is not just a strategic partner; it is a long-time friend. We share deep cultural and economic ties. Many Indian communities trace their roots to Iran. It is our duty to stand firmly with Iran in this time of crisis,” he said.
The remarks from the Opposition come in the wake of Modi’s official conversation with President Pezeshkian, during which he emphasized the need for peace and diplomacy.
“Spoke with President of Iran @drpezeshkian. We discussed in detail about the current situation. Expressed deep concern at the recent escalations. Reiterated our call for immediate de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward and for early restoration of regional peace, security and stability,” Modi posted on X on Sunday.
The diplomatic exchange came just hours after the United States carried out coordinated airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities — an operation Tehran condemned as “brutal military aggression” and a blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter.
The chain of events follows Iran’s launch of more than 30 ballistic missiles targeting Israel over the weekend. Israel claimed its strikes were pre-emptive, aimed at halting Iran’s alleged nuclear ambitions — a claim Iran continues to deny.
As regional tensions spiral, India finds itself navigating a precarious diplomatic path — balancing strategic partnerships with both Iran and Israel while facing mounting domestic political pressure over its official stance.