Prime Minister Modi Expresses Concern Over Escalating Crisis in the Middle East During Cabinet Meeting

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 4, 2024, New Delhi: The ongoing turmoil in the Middle East took center stage during a crucial cabinet committee meeting on Thursday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing deep concern over the escalating situation. As violence intensifies in the region, key government officials gathered to assess potential impacts on India’s trade and oil imports.

During the meeting, discussions focused on the critical nature of the conflict and its implications for India, particularly in light of rising oil prices and disrupted maritime trade routes. Informants indicate that the deteriorating circumstances in West Asia could lead to increased instability, with the potential for unrest to reverberate within India.

Prime Minister Modi underscored the need for peaceful resolutions, emphasizing that New Delhi has consistently urged warring nations to cease hostilities and engage in constructive dialogue. However, the situation remains precarious, with countries such as Israel and Iran remaining entrenched in their positions. Tensions escalated further on Tuesday when Tehran launched an attack targeting Tel Aviv, heightening concerns over regional security.

The cabinet members acknowledged that rising oil prices, spurred by the conflict, would have significant repercussions for the Indian economy, particularly since India is a major importer of oil from nations like Iran. An increase in oil costs could lead to higher domestic prices, impacting consumers across the country. Additionally, disruptions in maritime trade could exacerbate economic challenges.

Key figures present at the emergency cabinet meeting included Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. The meeting underscored the government's urgent need to formulate strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of the ongoing conflict while navigating the complexities of international diplomacy.

As the situation in the Middle East continues to unfold, India remains vigilant, with government officials closely monitoring developments and preparing to respond to any further escalations that may arise.