The conflict, particularly between Israel and Hamas, has not only claimed thousands of lives but also prompted widespread international concern about the broader consequences of an escalating war. Modi’s meeting focused on the possible repercussions for India's security, energy supplies, and its citizens abroad, especially in areas close to the conflict zone.
India’s foreign policy has traditionally aimed to balance relationships in the West Asian region, where it maintains strong ties with both Israel and various Arab nations. However, the ongoing violence has put India's delicate diplomacy under strain, making it necessary to reassess strategies to safeguard its national interests. The high-level meeting reflects an attempt to navigate these complex challenges while preparing for potential spillovers, such as economic disruptions or security threats.
A central concern of the discussions was the safety of Indian nationals living and working in conflict-affected areas. West Asia hosts millions of expatriates from India, who contribute significantly to the economy through remittances. The Ministry of External Affairs has been closely monitoring the situation, readying evacuation plans if the conflict spreads further. Diplomatic channels have also been activated to coordinate with neighboring countries in case of a large-scale evacuation.
India’s energy security, heavily reliant on West Asian oil imports, was another topic of concern. With the possibility of supply chain disruptions, officials at the meeting reportedly explored alternative arrangements for securing the nation’s energy needs. Crude oil prices have fluctuated sharply since the conflict intensified, raising fears of a prolonged economic impact. Discussions during the security meeting are believed to have included plans to mitigate such risks through strategic reserves and diversification of energy sources.
Economic factors also weighed heavily on the discussions. West Asia is a crucial trading partner for India, with bilateral trade amounting to billions of dollars annually. Disruptions in trade routes, including shipping lanes through the Gulf, could severely impact India’s economy. Additionally, any protracted conflict could lead to a spike in energy prices, further straining the country’s inflation and growth projections. The meeting, according to sources, emphasized the need for India to bolster its economic resilience in light of these potential challenges.
The Modi-led government has maintained a cautious diplomatic stance on the West Asia crisis. It has called for restraint and dialogue while avoiding taking sides in the conflict. India's nuanced approach is informed by its historically strong ties with Israel and its deep economic and strategic relations with Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Iran. Modi’s administration is aware that any misstep could jeopardize critical partnerships in the region, which play a vital role in India’s energy security, trade, and the welfare of its expatriate community.
India’s longstanding support for the Palestinian cause adds another layer of complexity. Despite New Delhi’s strategic ties with Israel, successive Indian governments have supported a two-state solution, calling for the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state alongside Israel. The high-level security discussions also delved into how the government would navigate its diplomatic position without compromising its relationships in the region.
The defense establishment was reportedly concerned about the potential for regional instability to affect India's own security landscape. Officials fear that if the conflict spreads beyond West Asia, it could embolden extremist groups in the subcontinent. Indian intelligence agencies have been on high alert for any signs of radicalization or external influence seeping into domestic affairs. As part of the meeting, there was a comprehensive review of India's internal security measures and counterterrorism preparedness to ensure the country remains vigilant against any external threats.
Another pressing issue was the humanitarian aspect of the conflict. India has traditionally been involved in peacekeeping efforts and humanitarian aid in conflict zones. While the West Asian conflict intensifies, New Delhi has expressed its readiness to contribute to international efforts aimed at reducing human suffering. Reports indicate that the government has discussed providing medical assistance, food supplies, and other essential aid to those affected by the violence. The security discussions are believed to have touched upon the logistical challenges of delivering aid in such a volatile region, as well as coordinating with international partners to ensure that relief efforts reach those in need.