West Asia remains a hotspot for conflicts due to deep-rooted geopolitical, sectarian, and resource-related tensions. India's strategic interests in the region, including energy security, trade, and the welfare of its diaspora, necessitate a nuanced approach to managing these challenges. Amid escalating Iran-Israel tensions, India has emphasized dialogue and diplomacy while maintaining ties with all key players.
Reasons for Persistent Conflicts in West Asia
1. Geopolitical Rivalries and Proxy Wars
Iran-Saudi Arabia rivalry drives proxy wars, e.g., Yemen Civil War.
Israel-Iran tensions over nuclear ambitions and support for groups like Hezbollah.
Refugee crises exacerbated, with 7.2 million Syrians internally displaced.
2. Religious Sectarianism
Sunni-Shia divide fuels regional conflicts, e.g., Bahrain's tensions between Sunni monarchy and Shia-majority population.
Iraq's war-related deaths (2003-2011): ~500,000.
3. Oil Abundance and Resource Control
Region holds ~48% of global oil reserves, sparking conflicts (e.g., Iraq-Kuwait).
Strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz heighten tensions, affecting global oil trade.
4. Colonial Legacy and Arbitrary Borders
Sykes-Picot Agreement ignored ethnic divides, e.g., Kurdish struggle for autonomy.
Israeli-Palestinian conflict rooted in the British Mandate period, leading to humanitarian crises.
5. Authoritarian Regimes and Political Repression
Monarchies and dictatorships suppress dissent, e.g., Arab Spring crackdowns.
Syrian regime attacks (2024): 500+ civilian casualties and 120,000 displaced.
6. Foreign Interventions
U.S. interventions (Iraq, Syria) often destabilize further, fostering extremist groups.
Rising Chinese influence through the Belt and Road Initiative challenges U.S. and Indian interests.
Implications for India
1. Energy Security
West Asia supplies 60% of India’s crude oil imports; disruptions impact prices and inflation.
India's diversification efforts include agreements with Russia and renewable energy initiatives.
2. Diaspora and Remittances
Over 8 million Indians in the region contribute 50% of India's remittances (~$87 billion in 2021).
Policies like "Saudization" and regional instability pose challenges.
3. Trade and Maritime Security
GCC-India trade: $161.59 billion in FY 2023-24.
Strategic chokepoints like Strait of Hormuz critical for energy imports and exports.
4. National Security
Extremist groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda threaten regional and Indian security.
Cross-border linkages in Jammu & Kashmir highlighted by recent FATF reports.
5. Cultural and Religious Ties
India’s large Muslim population (~200 million) makes developments in Islamic holy sites sensitive.
India’s Measures to Navigate West Asia’s Challenges
1. Strategic Autonomy
Foster bilateral ties with all key players, maintaining neutrality in rivalries (e.g., Iran-Saudi).
Promote India’s image as a peace-building partner.
2. Economic and Energy Initiatives
Diversify energy imports and expand Strategic Petroleum Reserves (e.g., new reserve in Mangalore).
Strengthen renewable energy cooperation with UAE and Saudi Arabia.
3. Diplomatic Engagements
Leverage forums like I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE, US) for cooperation in food security and clean energy.
Actively engage with GCC and OIC to enhance India’s role as a regional stabilizer.
4. Defense and Security Cooperation
Strengthen naval presence and collaborations for securing maritime chokepoints.
Enhance counter-terrorism initiatives with Israel, Saudi Arabia, and UAE.
5. Cultural Diplomacy
Advocate for labor rights and welfare of Indian workers.
Promote people-to-people ties through cultural exchanges and scholarships.
Conclusion
India’s strategic interests in West Asia demand a balanced approach emphasizing non-alignment, economic diversification, and enhanced multilateral cooperation. By fostering stability and promoting dialogue, India can secure its national interests while contributing to regional peace.
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