27 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

4 min

International RelationsPolity & GovernanceNEWS

Modi: India's security tied to West Asia stability, supports peaceful resolution

Q: What are India's strategic options regarding the tensions between Iran and the U.S.?

India has several strategic options: * Maintaining Dialogue: Continue diplomatic engagement with both Iran and the U.S. * Promoting De-escalation: Encourage peaceful negotiations and de-escalation of tensions. * Protecting Economic Interests: Safeguard its energy and trade interests in the region. * Supporting Multilateral Efforts: Work with other countries to find a peaceful resolution.

PM Modi emphasizes India's security interests are linked to West Asia stability.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while in Israel, declared that India's security is directly linked to the stability of West Asia. He affirmed India's support for resolving regional tensions through peaceful means. Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to collaborate on the India Middle East Economic Corridor (IMEC) and I2U2 projects. Modi reiterated India's stance against terrorism in all forms. Discussions also encompassed the tensions between Iran and the U.S., with India offering support for a peaceful resolution. Both countries signed MoUs, including one for geophysical exploration using AI technologies.

This commitment to regional stability and collaboration on projects like IMEC highlights India's growing role in West Asia. This news is relevant for UPSC Mains GS Paper 2, focusing on India's foreign policy and international relations.

Key Facts

India's security interests are directly linked to stability in West Asia.

India supports resolving regional tensions through peaceful means.

India and Israel agreed to collaborate on the India Middle East Economic Corridor (IMEC) and I2U2 projects.

India reiterated its stance against terrorism in all forms.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper 2: India's foreign policy and international relations

Strategic and economic dimensions of India's engagement with West Asia

India's role in regional conflicts and diplomacy

Impact of initiatives like IMEC and I2U2

In Simple Words

India believes that if West Asia is unstable, it affects India's own safety and economy. So, India wants everyone in that region to talk to each other and solve problems peacefully. India is also working with other countries to build roads and connections to make trade easier.

India Angle

Many Indians work in West Asia, and India buys a lot of oil from there. If there's trouble in that region, it can affect jobs for Indians and increase the price of petrol and other essential items.

For Instance

Think of it like your neighborhood. If there's constant fighting between families, it makes everyone feel unsafe and can even affect property values. Similarly, instability in West Asia affects India.

Peace in West Asia means stable oil prices, safe jobs for Indians working there, and smooth trade. It directly impacts the cost of living and economic opportunities for the average Indian.

India's safety and prosperity are tied to peace in West Asia.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated in Israel that India's security interests are directly linked to peace and stability in West Asia. He affirmed India's support for resolving regional tensions through peaceful means. Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to collaborate on the India Middle East Economic Corridor (IMEC) and I2U2 projects.

Modi reiterated India's stance against terrorism in all forms. Discussions also covered the tensions between Iran and the U.S., with India offering support for a peaceful resolution. Both countries signed MoUs, including one for geophysical exploration using AI technologies.

Expert Analysis

When Prime Minister Modi declared India's security linked to West Asia's stability, he was underscoring a long-standing but increasingly critical aspect of Indian foreign policy. The India Middle East Economic Corridor (IMEC), agreed upon with Israel, is a key element of this strategy. IMEC aims to establish a network of transportation infrastructure, including railways and sea lanes, connecting India with the Middle East and Europe. This corridor is not just about trade; it's about projecting India's influence and ensuring its economic and strategic interests in a region vital for its energy security and diaspora.

Another crucial element is the I2U2 initiative, which brings together India, Israel, the UAE, and the US. Formed in 2021, I2U2 focuses on cooperative economic projects in areas like water, energy, transportation, space, health, and food security. The collaboration with Israel on geophysical exploration using AI technologies, as mentioned in the news, directly aligns with I2U2's goals of promoting technological innovation and sustainable development. This initiative provides a platform for India to engage with key regional players and address shared challenges.

India's stated support for peaceful resolution of tensions, particularly between Iran and the US, reflects its commitment to multilateralism and peaceful diplomacy. India has historically maintained good relations with both countries, and it sees itself as a potential mediator in the region. This approach aligns with India's broader foreign policy objective of promoting stability and cooperation in its extended neighborhood. India's engagement with West Asia is not just about bilateral relations; it's about shaping a regional order that is conducive to its interests.

For UPSC aspirants, understanding these concepts is crucial for both Prelims and Mains. Questions can be framed on the IMEC corridor, the I2U2 initiative, and India's role in West Asia. Focus on the strategic and economic dimensions of these initiatives, as well as India's approach to regional conflicts and diplomacy.

Visual Insights

IMEC Route and Key Countries

This map shows the proposed route of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the key countries involved.

Loading interactive map...

📍India📍United Arab Emirates📍Israel📍Saudi Arabia📍Jordan📍Europe

More Information

Background

India's engagement with West Asia has evolved significantly over the decades. Historically, India maintained a non-aligned stance during the Cold War, fostering relationships with various countries in the region. The Nehruvian foreign policy emphasized peaceful coexistence and non-interference, which shaped India's initial approach to the Middle East. However, with changing geopolitical dynamics and India's growing economic interests, its engagement has become more proactive. The establishment of diplomatic relations with Israel in 1992 marked a turning point in India's West Asia policy. Prior to this, India had largely refrained from formal ties with Israel due to its support for the Palestinian cause. However, the end of the Cold War and the rise of terrorism prompted a reassessment of India's strategic priorities. The growing convergence of interests, particularly in areas like defense and counter-terrorism, led to closer cooperation between India and Israel. India's current approach to West Asia is guided by a multi-alignment strategy, where it seeks to maintain good relations with all key players in the region, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the UAE. This approach allows India to pursue its economic and strategic interests without being drawn into regional conflicts. The India Middle East Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the I2U2 initiative are examples of this strategy in action, as they involve cooperation with multiple countries in the region.

Latest Developments

In recent years, India has deepened its engagement with West Asia through various initiatives. The Abraham Accords, brokered by the US in 2020, have opened up new opportunities for cooperation between Israel and several Arab countries. India has welcomed these developments and has sought to leverage them to expand its economic and strategic partnerships in the region. India has also been actively involved in promoting regional security and stability. It has participated in joint military exercises with several countries in the region and has provided assistance in areas like counter-terrorism and maritime security. India's approach is based on the principle of inclusivity and non-interference, and it seeks to work with all stakeholders to address shared challenges. Looking ahead, India is expected to play an increasingly important role in West Asia. Its growing economic power and strategic influence make it a key partner for countries in the region. India's focus will likely be on promoting economic cooperation, enhancing security partnerships, and fostering regional stability. The success of initiatives like the IMEC corridor and the I2U2 initiative will be crucial in shaping India's future role in West Asia.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is India emphasizing West Asia's stability now? What triggered this?

India's increased emphasis on West Asia's stability stems from its growing economic and strategic interests in the region. Recent developments like the Abraham Accords have opened new avenues for cooperation. India is proactively engaging to secure its interests, particularly concerning energy security and trade, and sees regional stability as crucial for these.

2. How does India Middle East Economic Corridor (IMEC) connect to India's interests in West Asia?

The IMEC is a crucial project for India as it aims to enhance trade connectivity between India, the Middle East, and Europe. This corridor will reduce transit times and costs, boosting India's trade and economic influence in the region. It also provides an alternative trade route, diversifying away from traditional routes.

3. What is the likely Prelims question related to I2U2 and IMEC?

UPSC might ask about the member countries of I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE, USA) or the primary objective of IMEC (enhancing trade connectivity). A likely distractor would be including a country that is not a member or misrepresenting the project's goal as solely focused on security.

Exam Tip

Remember the acronyms and the full names of the countries involved. Focus on the economic aspects of these initiatives.

4. How can I structure a 250-word Mains answer on India's role in West Asia?

Start by highlighting India's historical ties and evolving interests in West Asia. Mention key initiatives like IMEC and I2U2. Discuss India's stance on regional conflicts, emphasizing peaceful resolutions and counter-terrorism efforts. Conclude by stating India's commitment to regional stability and its growing influence.

5. What is the 'India angle' in the tensions between Iran and the U.S. mentioned in the news?

India has significant energy interests in Iran and also maintains good relations with the U.S. Escalating tensions could jeopardize India's energy security and trade routes. India advocates for peaceful resolution to protect its economic and strategic interests.

6. Will this news about India's role in West Asia be relevant for GS Paper 1, 2, 3, or 4?

This news is most relevant for GS Paper 2 (International Relations), specifically concerning India's foreign policy, its relations with West Asian countries, and its role in regional stability. It could also touch upon GS Paper 3 (Economy) regarding trade and energy security.

7. How is India's current approach to West Asia different from its Nehruvian foreign policy?

While Nehruvian foreign policy emphasized non-alignment and peaceful coexistence, India's current approach is more proactive and engagement-oriented. India is now actively pursuing strategic partnerships and economic collaborations, moving beyond a purely non-interference stance to protect its interests.

8. If a Mains question asks 'Critically examine India's role in West Asia,' what points should I include?

A critical examination should include both the positive and negative aspects. Positively, highlight India's contributions to regional stability, economic partnerships, and peaceful conflict resolution efforts. Negatively, address challenges like balancing relations with competing nations (e.g., Iran and Saudi Arabia) and the impact of regional instability on India's interests.

9. What are India's strategic options regarding the tensions between Iran and the U.S.?

India has several strategic options: * Maintaining Dialogue: Continue diplomatic engagement with both Iran and the U.S. * Promoting De-escalation: Encourage peaceful negotiations and de-escalation of tensions. * Protecting Economic Interests: Safeguard its energy and trade interests in the region. * Supporting Multilateral Efforts: Work with other countries to find a peaceful resolution.

10. How does India's support for peaceful resolution in West Asia align with its stance on terrorism?

India views terrorism as a major threat to regional and global stability. By supporting peaceful resolutions, India aims to address the root causes of conflict that can fuel terrorism. This approach aligns with India's broader counter-terrorism strategy, which emphasizes both proactive measures and diplomatic solutions.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the India Middle East Economic Corridor (IMEC): 1. IMEC aims to connect India with Europe through a network of railways and sea lanes passing through the Middle East. 2. The project primarily focuses on enhancing cultural exchange between participating countries. 3. IMEC is solely funded by India and Israel. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 only
B.2 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: IMEC aims to establish a transportation network connecting India with the Middle East and Europe through railways and sea lanes. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: The primary focus of IMEC is on economic cooperation and trade, not cultural exchange. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: IMEC involves multiple countries and is not solely funded by India and Israel. Other nations like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are also involved.

2. The I2U2 initiative involves which of the following countries? 1. India 2. Israel 3. United Arab Emirates 4. United Kingdom 5. United States Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A.1, 2 and 3 only
B.1, 2 and 5 only
C.1, 2, 3 and 5 only
D.2, 3, 4 and 5 only

Show Answer

Answer: C

The I2U2 initiative includes India, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. The United Kingdom is not a part of this initiative. The initiative focuses on cooperative economic projects in areas like water, energy, transportation, space, health, and food security.

3. Which of the following statements best describes India's current approach to West Asia? A) India prioritizes military alliances with specific countries in the region. B) India follows a policy of strict non-alignment, avoiding engagement in regional conflicts. C) India pursues a multi-alignment strategy, maintaining good relations with all key players. D) India focuses solely on economic partnerships, avoiding political involvement.

Show Answer

Answer: C

India's current approach to West Asia is characterized by a multi-alignment strategy, where it seeks to maintain good relations with all key players in the region. This allows India to pursue its economic and strategic interests without being drawn into regional conflicts.

4. Assertion (A): India's security interests are directly linked to the stability of West Asia. Reason (R): West Asia is a major source of India's energy imports and hosts a large Indian diaspora. In the context of the above, which of the following is correct?

A.Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
B.Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
C.A is true but R is false
D.A is false but R is true

Show Answer

Answer: A

Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion. West Asia's stability is crucial for India's energy security and the well-being of its diaspora, making India's security interests directly linked to the region's stability.

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The Hindu·27 Feb 2026