Modi Defends West Asia Crisis Management Amid Opposition Warnings

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has defended India's resilience following a West Asia conflict that began on February 28, 2026, with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Tehran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Speaking at rallies in Kerala and Gujarat and during a 'Mann Ki Baat' address, Modi asserted that India's foreign policy and national unity have mitigated the impact of global energy disruptions and fuel price hikes. He highlighted diplomatic efforts to secure LPG shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and consultations with world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Modi repeatedly accused the Indian National Congress of acting as "political vultures" by spreading misinformation and attempting to incite disorder at fuel stations. He claimed the government absorbed rising oil costs to protect citizens from the burden of inflation. In Gujarat, Modi also inaugurated development projects totaling nearly 20,000 crore rupees and a new semiconductor plant in Sanand, linking the move to the US-led Pax Silica coalition.

Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi challenged these claims, warning of a looming "financial earthquake" characterized by rising inflation. Simultaneously, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called for an immediate ceasefire, suggesting Modi's unique diplomatic ties make him essential for brokering peace.