Manish Tewari, Tharoor Back Government’s Cautious Approach, Rahul Gandhi Criticises Silence
March 19, 2026: A sharp divide has emerged within the Indian National Congress as senior leaders Manish Tewari and Shashi Tharoor supported the Narendra Modi government’s cautious stance on the Iran-Israel-US conflict. While party leadership, led by Rahul Gandhi, criticised the Centre’s silence, both leaders argued that India’s strategic autonomy and national interest must come first.
Tewari described India as a “marginal player” in West Asia and stressed the need to protect its diaspora and energy interests. He said the government’s careful approach was justified given India’s dependence on Gulf nations. Tharoor echoed this view, calling it “responsible statecraft” and stating that restraint does not mean support for war, but a pragmatic balancing of principles and national priorities.
In contrast, Rahul Gandhi questioned the government’s silence, especially after the reported killing of Ali Hosseini Khamenei, warning that such actions could worsen humanitarian concerns. The differing views within the party highlight an internal debate over India’s foreign policy approach amid a rapidly escalating global crisis.