Global Conflicts and Their Implications

Across the globe, long-standing conflicts are resurging with significant impact. Major powers are increasingly resorting to military actions to defend or further their national security interests, challenging international law and order.

Recent Military Actions

• Russia's "Special Military Operation" in Ukraine (February 2022).
• The United States' "Operation Midnight Hammer" in Iran, signaling unilateral force use.
• Military strikes by Israel and the US on Iranian nuclear sites have destabilizing consequences, with Iran confirming the degradation of its military and nuclear assets.
• The strategic landscape in the Middle East is reshaping rapidly, with Israel's operations in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria.

Emerging Trends

• Iran appears isolated and militarily weakened, but its regime endures.
• Israel achieves military success but struggles with international public opinion.
• The Islamic world offers limited tangible support to affected populations.
• The Gulf Cooperation Council countries condemn Iran's actions but are relieved about its nuclear defanging.

International Order and Double Standards

• The rules-based international order is undermined by unilateral actions.
• There are evident double standards in international responses to conflicts, with differing treatment of nations based on strategic interests.
• India's perspective highlights frustration with perceived inconsistencies, particularly regarding Pakistan.

India's Strategic Actions

• India's "Operation Sindoor" aligns with global trends of proactive defense actions.
• Similarities exist between US-Israeli frustration with Iran and India's impatience with Pakistan.
• India emphasizes the importance of speed, precision, and timing in modern military strategy.

Impact on India and Strategic Balancing

• Prolonged West Asian crises affect India's interests, requiring careful weighing of responses.
• Consistency in positions is less critical compared to strategic balancing.
• India must balance its relations with Iran, Gulf states, and Israel, reflecting regional complexities.

India's Bilateral Relations

• India-Israel ties are at an all-time high, especially in counter-terrorism cooperation.
• India has made significant diplomatic inroads with Saudi Arabia, UAE, and other Arab states.
• Iran remains a crucial partner for India, with historical and strategic ties, and acts as a counterbalance to Pakistan.

West Asia's Future and Iran's Role

West Asia is undergoing significant political and strategic reordering. The future trajectory of Iran, its potential reintegration into the international community, and its internal tipping points remain critical questions.