Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Saturday delivered a sharp critique of the government’s position amid the escalating conflict in West Asia, linking recent geopolitical developments to what he described as a broader and concerning regional strategy by Israel.
Referring to what he termed the “28th day of US-Israel aerial bombardment of Iran and Iran’s counter-offensive,” Ramesh argued that global attention has remained narrowly focused on key flashpoints such as the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf energy infrastructure, while other significant developments have received far less scrutiny.
He claimed that during this period, Israel has continued its operations in Gaza, initiated moves to establish a buffer zone in southern Lebanon, and taken steps that could consolidate its control over the West Bank. According to Ramesh, these developments point to a broader strategic agenda unfolding with limited global attention.
Describing the conflict as a possible distraction, he said the ongoing war is enabling Israel to advance its wider regional ambitions while undermining prospects for a Palestinian state.
Ramesh also questioned the timing of recent diplomatic engagements by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, suggesting that critical developments coincided with his visit to Israel. He noted that the bombardment of Iran began shortly after the visit and highlighted a prior Israeli cabinet decision regarding land registration in the occupied West Bank, which he said could impact a large number of Palestinians.
In a direct remark aimed at the Prime Minister, Ramesh accused him of not speaking out strongly enough on the issue or addressing these developments publicly.
His comments come amid heightened tensions across West Asia, where multiple conflict zones continue to raise concerns about regional stability and humanitarian consequences.