New Delhi: The Congress on Saturday (March 21, 2026) strongly criticised the Modi government for not condemning the ongoing aerial attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran, calling the silence a sign of “moral cowardice” and a “betrayal” of India’s long-standing civilisational principles.

Jairam Ramesh Questions Government’s Stand

Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh pointed out that it has been three weeks since the US-Israel offensive on Iran began, and over three weeks since Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned from his widely publicised visit to Israel.

In a statement posted on X, Ramesh questioned whether the government had at any point criticised or condemned the large-scale military action that has triggered economic disruptions globally, including in India. He asserted that the answer was “no.”

Allegations Over Lack of Diplomatic Action

Ramesh also accused the Centre of failing to speak out against the targeted killings of senior Iranian leaders and the broader attempt to destabilise the Iranian regime, which he warned could push the country towards civil war.

He further questioned whether India had undertaken any meaningful diplomatic initiative to de-escalate the conflict or used the Prime Minister’s personal rapport with US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to push for a ceasefire. According to him, no such efforts were visible.

“Four Nos” Reflect Policy Failure: Congress

Summing up his criticism, the Congress leader said that the government’s inaction on condemnation, diplomacy, targeted killings, and regime change attempts amounted to “four clear nos,” which he claimed reflected a serious failure in India’s foreign policy approach.

Conflict Continues to Escalate

Meanwhile, the conflict has shown no signs of easing. Israel has accused Iran of continuing missile strikes, while Saudi Arabia reported intercepting multiple drones over its eastern region, a key oil-producing area.

Iran has also targeted energy infrastructure in Gulf nations and issued threats against tourist and recreational locations globally. In response, the United States has increased its military presence, deploying additional warships and around 2,500 Marines.

Rising Casualties and Regional Impact

The ongoing conflict has led to significant casualties and displacement. Reports indicate that more than 1,300 people have been killed in Iran, over 1,000 in Lebanon, 15 in Israel, and 13 US military personnel in the region. Millions have been displaced, particularly in Iran and Lebanon, as the humanitarian crisis deepens.