Understanding geopolitical factors behind India’s silence over Khamenei death, Pg11

Key Highlights:

• The Indian government faced criticism for its silence following the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei.
• Despite External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's call with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, no condolence message was issued.
• India's decision is influenced by complex geopolitics, strained relations with Iran, and Khamenei's criticism of India's policies.
• India's trade with Iran has decreased from $17 billion in 2018 to $1.68 billion in 2025 due to U.S. sanctions.

Detailed Insights:

• India's growing security relationship with Israel, highlighted by Modi's visit to Jerusalem, signals a shift in regional balance.
• U.S. sanctions on Iran have significantly weakened India-Iran ties, leading to a halt in oil imports and investments.
• Khamenei's past criticism of India's Kashmir policy and comments on the Delhi riots have strained relations.
• India's silence is also attributed to the need to maintain strong ties with Gulf countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where millions of Indians reside.
• The strengthening defence partnership with the UAE and restored trade ties with the U.S. further influence India's cautious approach.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Geopolitics: The study of the influence of geography on international relations and foreign policy.
• Sanctions: Economic penalties imposed by a country or group of countries against a target entity.
• Pax Silica: A U.S. initiative to create a secure supply chain for critical technologies, including India.