New Delhi: Delivering a sharp message on India’s diplomatic stance, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday dismissed Pakistan’s reported role in mediating between the US and Iran, asserting that New Delhi does not engage in “brokerage diplomacy.”
“Hum unki tarah dalali nahi kar sakte (We cannot act as brokers like them),” Jaishankar said during a high-level all-party meeting, according to sources.
Govt Briefs Parties on West Asia Crisis
The remarks came as the government briefed political leaders on India’s diplomatic positioning and energy preparedness amid escalating tensions in West Asia.
The meeting, held at the Parliament House complex, was chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and attended by key ministers including Home Minister Amit Shah, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, along with leaders from various parties.
Pakistan’s Mediation Pitch Draws India’s Rebuke
Jaishankar’s remarks were seen as a direct response to reports that Pakistan, along with countries like Turkey, has stepped up efforts to mediate between United States and Iran amid rising tensions.
Addressing concerns raised by opposition leaders, Jaishankar reportedly said Pakistan’s role as an intermediary is not new, adding that Islamabad has historically been “used” by Washington in such contexts since the 1980s.
Govt Defends Response, Opposition Pushes Back
Government sources rejected Opposition criticism that India had remained silent on the West Asia crisis, insisting that New Delhi has been actively “commenting and responding” to developments.
On the issue of Iran, officials clarified that India had responded promptly at the diplomatic level. The Foreign Secretary visited the Iranian Embassy and signed the condolence register following the reported death of Iran’s Supreme Leader.
The government also emphasised that its top priorities remain safeguarding the Indian diaspora in the Gulf region and ensuring stable energy supplies—both of which, it claimed, are being effectively managed.
However, Opposition leaders termed the government’s responses “unsatisfactory” and demanded a full-fledged debate on the West Asia situation in both Houses of Parliament.
Strategic Balancing Act
India’s stance reflects a careful balancing act—maintaining strategic autonomy while navigating a volatile geopolitical landscape in West Asia, where energy security and the safety of millions of Indian nationals remain critical concerns.
