Congress Criticises Modi's Foreign Policy Amid Iran‑Israel‑US Conflict and Trade Deal Controversy

Congress Criticises Modi’s Foreign Policy Amid Iran‑Israel‑US Conflict and Trade Deal Controversy The Indian National Congress on 1 March 2026 accused the Modi government of betraying India’s values and strategic interests in the wake of a joint U.S.–Israel attack on Iran . Congress leader Jairam Ramesh used his X post to highlight perceived contradictions in India’s diplomatic stance, the handling of a controversial Operation Sindoor , and a one‑sided India‑U.S. trade deal . Key Developments Modi visited Knesset on 25‑26 Feb 2026 , just before the U.S.–Israel strike on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei . Congress alleges the Modi government remained silent on the U.S. President’s (Donald Trump) “romance” with Pakistan and on the alleged tariff strategy that underpinned the trade pact. The U.S. Supreme Court later declared the tariff framework illegal, raising questions about the durability of the deal. Ramesh accused Modi of giving a “clean chit” to China in 2020, weakening India’s negotiating position after the 2020 Ladakh clashes. Important Facts • The attack on Iran was launched on 28 Feb 2026 by the United States and Israel, targeting Khamenei’s compound in Tehran. • Congress demanded the government ensure safety of Indian nationals in the Middle East and work for de‑escalation. • Ramesh highlighted that the trade deal obliges India to liberalise imports, especially agricultural commodities, without reciprocal US concessions. UPSC Relevance Understanding the dynamics of India’s foreign policy is essential for Vishwaguru rhetoric helps answer questions on India’s strategic autonomy, non‑alignment, and bilateral engagements. The episode also illustrates how domestic political criticism can shape foreign‑policy discourse, a recurring theme in GS2. Moreover, the trade‑deal controversy touches on economic diplomacy, tariff politics, and legal challenges, relevant for GS3. Way Forward • The government may need to articulate a clear stance on the Iran‑Israel‑U.S. conflict to safeguard Indian interests and citizens abroad. • A review of the India‑U.S. trade deal should address asymmetries and ensure compliance with international legal standards. • Strengthening diplomatic channels with both Western and regional powers can help mitigate fallout from unilateral actions and reinforce India’s image as a responsible global player.