'A United Front': Govt Briefs All-Party Meet On India’s Multi-Pronged West Asia Strategy

Last Updated:March 25, 2026, 23:05 IST

A primary focus of the government’s presentation, led by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, was the robust state of India’s energy reserves

In a significant show of democratic coordination, the Centre convened an all-party meeting on Wednesday to address the escalating situation in West Asia and its multifaceted implications for India. Chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the briefing served as a platform for the government to present a comprehensive roadmap on energy security, diplomatic positioning, and supply chain resilience. High-ranking officials, including Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, joined Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri to reassure the political spectrum of India’s readiness.

Navigating Diplomatic Neutrality and Opposition Queries

The meeting saw a robust exchange between the Treasury and Opposition benches, particularly regarding India’s diplomatic stance. Several opposition members raised questions about Pakistan’s reported offer to mediate between the United States and Iran. In response, the government dismissed the novelty of such offers, pointing to an arrangement dating back to 1981 under which Pakistan has periodically positioned itself as a mediator. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar was notably firm, asserting that India does not act as a “broker" and reportedly stating, “Hum unki tarah dalali nahi kar sakte."

The government further clarified its position on several sensitive fronts. Addressing concerns over an alleged delay in condemning the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, officials maintained that condolences were conveyed promptly, with the Foreign Secretary visiting the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi to sign the condolence book. Responding to questions on US sanctions and oil imports, the government maintained that the current sanctions framework was an inherited one, tracing back to the 2008–2012 period. On the maritime front, members were informed that Iran had actually appreciated an Indian advisory regarding naval movement, noting that a specific Iranian vessel might have faced a different outcome had the advice been followed.

Energy Security and Resource Diversification

A primary focus of the government’s presentation was the robust state of India’s energy reserves. The government revealed a strategic shift in crude oil sourcing, with nearly 70% of imports now routed outside the volatile Strait of Hormuz. By expanding procurement to include alternative sources such as Russia and Iran, and securing additional arrangements via Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu Port in the Red Sea, India has significantly insulated its supply lines from regional chokepoints.

This diversification strategy extends to Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and LPG, with supplies now sourced from 14 different nations including the United States, Australia, and Oman. The government confirmed that there is currently no shortage of petrol, diesel, kerosene, or aviation turbine fuel. While households continue to receive full piped gas and uninterrupted CNG supplies, the industrial sector is being managed with approximately 80% of its average supply, and fertiliser plants are receiving 70%.

Agricultural Stability and Trade Resilience

To safeguard India’s food security, the government has taken proactive steps to ensure the availability of fertilisers for the upcoming Kharif 2026 season. Stocks for urea, DAP, and NPK fertilisers are reported to be significantly higher than last year’s levels. This stability is the result of an active diplomatic outreach to nearly 20 countries, including Egypt, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, to broaden sourcing channels.

While cargo movements and shipping have faced inevitable interruptions, the government is pivoting its export strategy toward the Global South. By strengthening trade ties with nations in Africa and Latin America, India aims to provide essential food and fertiliser supplies to regions facing acute shortages. This move is seen as both a humanitarian gesture and a strategic effort to maintain trade volumes despite the crisis in traditional shipping routes.

Maritime Advocacy and National Unity

India’s proactive role in maritime safety was a key highlight. Following an emergency session at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and a UN Security Council resolution on March 11, India successfully advocated for the safe passage of global shipping. Notably, Indian intervention led to the safe redirection of four major LNG vessels—Alhwa, Nanda Devi, Jaya Vaunt, and Prime Gas—through the Strait.

The government concluded the session by urging all political parties to present a united front. It stressed that a singular national message is vital to prevent public panic and ensure the country acts in unison during this period of global uncertainty, expressing confidence that both the government and opposition would work together to reassure the public.

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