New Delhi: The opposition party Indian National Congress has expressed concern over the escalating conflict in West Asia, warning that the situation is now unfolding dangerously close to India’s maritime neighbourhood. The remarks followed reports that an Iranian naval vessel was sunk by a United States submarine roughly 40 miles off the coast of Sri Lanka.
In a statement posted on social media, the party said the incident signalled that the ongoing confrontation involving Iran, Israel and the United States was moving closer to India’s strategic region. According to the party, the sinking of the Iranian vessel represented a serious escalation of maritime hostilities that could draw the broader region into an unpredictable conflict.
Congress also pointed out that the Iranian warship had recently taken part in a naval event hosted by the Indian Navy before leaving Indian waters. The party said it was concerned that such a major military action occurred without India being informed or consulted, despite Washington being considered one of New Delhi’s key strategic partners.
The opposition further warned that the conflict could pose risks to India’s national security and economic stability. India imports nearly 80 percent of its energy requirements, with a large portion of oil shipments passing through the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s reported decision to close the strait amid the escalating tensions has raised concerns about potential disruptions to global energy supplies.
Congress also cautioned that expanding military activity to major sea routes could impact international trade and shipping. Rising freight and insurance costs for vessels travelling through the region could eventually have economic consequences for India.
Calling for a stronger diplomatic response, the party urged the government to clearly communicate its concerns to the United States. It argued that strategic autonomy requires India to take a firm position whenever developments threaten national interests.
The opposition emphasised that while maintaining international partnerships is important, India must ensure that regional conflicts do not turn its surrounding waters into a theatre for wars in which it has no direct role.
