Congress Slams PM Modi for Silence on Israel, Criticises Call to Iran Amid Escalating Tensions

New Delhi – The Congress party on Monday accused the Modi government of remaining silent on Israel’s actions amid escalating Middle East tensions, while also criticising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent phone call to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian urging de-escalation.

Congress MP Pramod Tiwari questioned the government’s approach, accusing PM Modi of selectively appealing for calm. “The US is deploying B2 bombers from thousands of kilometres away, and you’re choosing to send a message of restraint to Iran? Why not speak out against Israel? Why not call out the United States for its military actions?” he said.

Tiwari argued that instead of holding accountable those violating international law, India was advising restraint to those affected by such violations.
“You’re advising Iran to de-escalate, while remaining silent on Israel’s aggression. That’s not neutrality, it’s weakness,” he stated.

He also reminded the government of Iran’s diplomatic support to India, especially regarding the Kashmir issue at the United Nations.
“Iran has consistently supported India, even when we faced global isolation, particularly on Kashmir. It’s unfortunate that we are now failing to acknowledge that friendship,” Tiwari added.

Echoing the sentiment, Congress leader Imran Masood called for greater solidarity with Iran.
“Iran has been a long-standing friend of India, with deep-rooted trade and cultural ties. We must stand firmly with them, especially in times of crisis,” he said.

The criticism came after Prime Minister Modi held a phone conversation with President Pezeshkian on Sunday, urging restraint and a return to diplomacy.

“Spoke with President of Iran @drpezeshkian. We discussed the current situation in detail. Expressed deep concern at recent escalations. Reiterated our call for immediate de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy, and the early restoration of regional peace, security and stability,” PM Modi posted on X.

The call came just hours after the United States carried out coordinated airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities—actions that Tehran condemned as a “brutal military aggression” and a violation of international law and the UN Charter.

The strikes followed Iran’s launch of over 30 ballistic missiles toward Israel. In response, Israel claimed its actions were “pre-emptive,” aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons—a charge Iran has consistently denied.

With inputs from IANS