Congress slams Israel’s Iran strikes

New Delhi

 The Congress party on Sunday strongly condemned Israel’s recent airstrikes and targeted assassinations on Iranian soil, calling them a serious breach of Iran’s sovereignty that could escalate into a larger regional conflict.

Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh said the actions represent “a dangerous escalation with grave regional and global consequences.” In a post on social media platform X, Ramesh stated that such military aggression only deepens instability and increases the likelihood of prolonged conflict.

Ramesh emphasized that India must take a firm stand in the matter. “India should act responsibly, speak clearly, and deploy every diplomatic channel to help de-escalate tensions and push for a return to dialogue,” he said.

The Congress leader also noted India’s unique relationship with both nations—longstanding civilizational ties with Iran and strategic ties with Israel—putting the country in a rare position to mediate for peace. With millions of Indian citizens working across West Asia, regional peace is not just a geopolitical issue but a national interest, he added.

The Congress also criticized the government’s silence over India’s refusal to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s (SCO) statement condemning Israel’s actions, questioning whether India had become “an abject apologist for Israel.”

Israel launched Operation Rising Lion on June 13, targeting Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure, killing key personnel. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on June 15. While the Indian government reiterated its call for restraint, it maintained distance from the SCO resolution, saying it had communicated its position separately to other member nations.