Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The West Asian region, and Iraq specifically, holds immense strategic importance for India. Historically, India has maintained close ties with countries in the region, driven by economic imperatives – particularly energy security – and the presence of a large Indian diaspora. The recent and ongoing turmoil in Iraq, stemming from the US invasion in 2003, the rise of ISIS, and subsequent geopolitical rivalries, coupled with broader instability across West Asia (Syria, Yemen, Lebanon, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict), presents significant implications for India’s security and foreign policy. These implications range from increased security threats to complex diplomatic challenges, demanding a calibrated and multi-faceted approach from New Delhi.
India’s Historical Ties and Current Engagement
India’s relationship with West Asia dates back centuries, fostered by trade and cultural exchange. Post-independence, India prioritized a non-aligned foreign policy, maintaining friendly relations with both Arab nations and Israel. Currently, the region is crucial for India’s energy security, with West Asia supplying over 60% of India’s crude oil imports (as of 2023-24, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas data). Furthermore, the region hosts over 8 million Indian nationals, contributing significantly to India’s remittances. India’s economic engagement extends to infrastructure projects, trade, and investment.
Security Concerns for India
Terrorism and Radicalization
The primary security concern for India is the potential for terrorism and radicalization emanating from the region. The rise of ISIS in Iraq and Syria posed a direct threat, with reports of Indian nationals joining the terrorist group. The instability in Iraq created a vacuum exploited by terrorist organizations, potentially impacting India through:
- Recruitment: ISIS and other groups actively sought recruits from India, particularly through online radicalization.
- Terrorist Attacks: The possibility of returning fighters carrying out attacks in India.
- Cross-border Terrorism: Increased support for terrorist groups operating in Kashmir and other parts of India.
The conflict in Yemen also presents a security challenge, with potential for spillover effects and the involvement of groups with links to India-centric terrorist organizations.
Maritime Security
Instability in the region disrupts maritime trade routes vital for India’s economy. Piracy, particularly in the Gulf of Aden, poses a threat to Indian shipping. Geopolitical tensions, such as those between Iran and the US, can escalate and disrupt maritime traffic, impacting India’s oil imports. India has actively participated in anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden as part of Operation Atalanta (EU Naval Force) and independently.
Regional Power Dynamics
The rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and the involvement of external powers like the US, Russia, and Turkey, creates a complex geopolitical landscape. India needs to navigate these competing interests carefully to protect its own strategic interests. The Abraham Accords, normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab nations, have further altered the regional dynamics, requiring India to recalibrate its approach.
Implications for India’s Foreign Policy
Balancing Act
India has traditionally pursued a policy of balancing its relations with various actors in the region. This involves maintaining strong ties with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, while also strengthening its strategic partnership with Israel. The turmoil in Iraq and West Asia necessitates a more nuanced balancing act, requiring India to engage with all stakeholders while safeguarding its own interests.
Relations with Key Actors
- Saudi Arabia & UAE: Maintaining strong economic and strategic ties, particularly in the energy sector and for diaspora welfare.
- Iran: Continuing engagement despite US sanctions, particularly concerning the Chabahar Port project, vital for connectivity to Afghanistan and Central Asia.
- Israel: Strengthening strategic partnership in areas of defense, technology, and counter-terrorism.
- Turkey: Engaging with Turkey despite its often divergent foreign policy objectives, focusing on trade and regional stability.
Diaspora Diplomacy
Protecting the welfare of the large Indian diaspora in the region is a key foreign policy priority. India has undertaken several evacuation operations, such as Operation Safe Passage in 2011 (Libya) and Operation Vande Bharat during the COVID-19 pandemic, to bring back Indian nationals from conflict zones.
Conclusion
The turmoil in Iraq and West Asia presents a complex set of challenges and opportunities for India. Maintaining energy security, protecting the diaspora, and countering terrorism remain paramount concerns. India’s foreign policy must continue to be guided by pragmatism, balancing its relationships with key actors and promoting regional stability. Increased diplomatic engagement, strategic partnerships, and a proactive approach to maritime security are crucial for navigating the evolving geopolitical landscape and safeguarding India’s interests in this vital region. A long-term strategy focusing on economic diversification and reducing dependence on West Asian oil is also essential for enhancing India’s strategic autonomy.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.