Is India tailing the U.S. in its West Asia policy?, Pg9

Key Highlights:

• A major war has erupted in West Asia involving Israel, the U.S., and Iran, causing rising energy prices and economic risks for India.
• Prime Minister Modi's visit to Israel before the conflict and India's silence on the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei suggest a pro-Israel stance.
• Gulf countries are adopting a defensive posture, carefully avoiding offensive terminology, but face potential air defense shortages if attacks persist.
• The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) project has stalled due to the ongoing crisis and lack of investor interest.

Detailed Insights:

• India's response to the conflict has been surprisingly detached, given its stakes in regional peace, energy security, and the welfare of 10 million Indians in the region.
• Strategic ambiguity can better serve India's national interests during strategic churn, rather than openly signaling a one-sided affiliation.
• India's relationship with Iran is strategically critical for connectivity to Central Asia and the South Caucasus, yet New Delhi has maintained silence on the air strikes.
• President Trump's unpredictability and perceived hostility towards India have complicated India's policy towards West Asia.
• The October 7 Hamas terror attack against Israel was a fundamental blow to IMEC, which is currently on the back burner due to regional instability.
• West Asia lacks a platform for serious security discussions, and countries like India, China, and Russia can play a role in facilitating constructive dialogue.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Strategic Ambiguity: A deliberate lack of clarity on one's intentions to keep options open.
• Track-Two Dialogue: Unofficial and informal discussions between individuals to explore potential solutions.
• Energy Security: Ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy supplies.