New Delhi | IP News
The escalating conflict between Israel and Iran has entered its eighth day, marked by deadly airstrikes, retaliatory missile attacks, and mounting global concern. Over 200 people have been killed in Iran and 24 in Israel, as both countries continue to target strategic military and civilian infrastructure.
Recent Escalation
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On June 13, Israeli fighter jets struck Tehran’s nuclear and IRGC military facilities.
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On June 19, Iran retaliated with ballistic missiles that damaged Soroka Medical Center in Beer Sheva, Israel.
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Israeli Defense Minister responded with a direct threat to Iran’s Supreme Leader, raising fears of all-out war.
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Iran’s Arak heavy water reactor was reportedly hit by Israeli missiles on June 19.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claims it intercepted several missiles over central Tehran, while civil defense units worked to contain fires and debris damage.
Global Fallout: Oil & Trade in Peril
As missiles fly, fears rise over the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil and LNG exports pass. With India heavily reliant on Middle Eastern crude, the crisis poses serious economic risk —though retail inflation remains stable at 2.82% (May 2025) for now.
India’s Position & Operation Sindhu
India has stayed neutral, calling for restraint and diplomacy while prioritising citizen safety. Under Operation Sindhu, India evacuated:
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110 Indian students from Tehran via Yerevan, Armenia
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Evacuation flights landed in New Delhi on June 19
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued advisories for:
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~18,000 Indians in Iran
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~30,000 Indians in Israel
India’s strategic silence at the UNGA Gaza ceasefire vote signals a balancing act—preserving diplomatic ties with both West Asian nations while safeguarding economic interests.
Global Responses
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UN Human Rights Office: Called for urgent dialogue to prevent regional catastrophe.
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U.S. President Donald Trump: Convened Situation Room on June 18; no military involvement yet.
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Iran’s Supreme Leader: Warned the U.S. of “irreparable consequences” if it intervenes.
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France, UK, and EU: Urged restraint; Geneva talks scheduled for June 20.
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NATO: Strategic summit planned in The Hague (June 24–25).
Outlook
The regional conflict has the potential to:
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Further destabilize West Asia
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Spike oil and gas prices globally
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Strain India’s trade and energy security
India continues to monitor the situation closely, focusing on citizen safety, neutral diplomacy, and economic resilience.
