Overview : On 6 March 2026, Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal visited the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi to sign a condolence book for the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei . He used the occasion to highlight a perceived “slow dismantling” of the rule‑based global order and urged dialogue over the use of force. Key Developments U.S. and Israel carried out a joint strike on Tehran on 28 February 2026, killing Khamenei . Iran retaliated with attacks on Israeli and American military installations across the Gulf region, including the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. India, through its parliamentarians, called for resolving the crisis via diplomatic dialogue and diplomacy. Kapil Sibal emphasized that reverting to a “might‑is‑right” mindset would jeopardise global peace and the interests of all nations. Important Facts The joint U.S.– Israel operation marked the first direct killing of Iran’s supreme leader. Following the strike, Iran’s retaliatory wave targeted strategic assets in multiple Gulf states, escalating the conflict beyond its borders. India’s official stance, reiterated by its parliamentarians, aligns with its long‑standing policy of non‑alignment and advocacy for peaceful resolution of international disputes. UPSC Relevance Understanding this episode is crucial for several UPSC dimensions: International Relations (GS1) : The incident illustrates the fragility of the rule‑based global order and the role of major powers ( U.S. ) in shaping regional security. Polity (GS2) : India’s parliamentary response showcases the use of democratic institutions to articulate foreign‑policy positions and uphold the principle of diplomatic dialogue . Ethics & Integrity (GS4) : The emphasis on dialogue over the use of weapons of mass destruction reflects ethical considerations in international conduct. Way Forward For a sustainable resolution, the following steps are advisable: Encourage multilateral forums (UN, SCO) to mediate and de‑escalate tensions. Strengthen regional confidence‑building measures between Iran, Israel and the Gulf states. India should continue to champion diplomatic dialogue , leveraging its strategic autonomy to facilitate negotiations. Monitor the impact of the conflict on global energy markets and security architecture, integrating findings into policy planning. By adhering to these measures, the international community can aim to restore confidence in the rule‑based global order and prevent further erosion of global peace.