Tharoor has repeatedly asked the government to publicly push for a ceasefire and use diplomacy to stop the fighting. He believes both sides have gotten what they wanted so far and should now try to calm things down instead of continuing to fight.
Tharoor’s call for Indian leadership
He points out the United States says it has hit its targets and Iranian leaders have protected their government and ability to survive. Tharoor thinks these results are enough reason for both sides to pause and try to negotiate a solution to the conflict.
The fighting has really disrupted the flow of oil and gas, especially through the Strait of Hormuz which is a very important route for global energy trading. Tharoor explained that these interruptions are increasing prices and threatening to upset international markets.
Global energy and supply chain impacts
When energy costs go up, it affects the price of making things, transport and food, and makes inflation (the general rise in prices) worse in many countries. Tharoor says keeping the region in a state of conflict is damaging the world’s economic recovery and the livelihoods of millions of people who need a reliable supply of energy.
This current round of violence started on February 28 with the killing of Iran’s highest leader, and this led to both sides attacking each other. Several countries have gotten involved, and both military and civilian facilities have been targeted throughout the region.
Regional dynamics and achieved objectives
Tharoor suggests that both the US and Iran have achieved their main goals and should think about how much it will cost to continue the fighting. He feels that continuing to fight at this point doesn’t really help either side, and it makes the situation in the region even more unstable.
India’s immediate energy concerns and shipments
India is already experiencing problems with its supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and its overall energy security. Because of shortages, businesses that provide services have had to reduce what they do and the government is carefully monitoring ships to make sure the country has enough energy.
Recently, the LPG carrier Nanda Devi arrived at Vadinar after going through the Strait of Hormuz, and another ship, LPG Shivalik, reached Mudra Port with supplies for Mundra and Mangalore. These arrivals show that supply lines by sea are both vulnerable and can still work.
Policy implications and diplomatic options for New Delhi
Tharoor wants India to take the lead in diplomacy by publicly asking for a ceasefire and working with many countries. India could use energy as a way of doing diplomacy, talk to other countries in the area and use international meetings to push for quick help for people and the economy.
A long-term effort by India would likely focus on stability, the ability to move freely by sea, and protecting trade routes. By supporting an end to the fighting, New Delhi (the Indian government) could help stop energy prices from going up and protect India’s own economic interests.
Tharoor also mentioned that Iranian officials in India know about India’s energy requirements, and so there is a chance for discussion. He says this is an opportunity for sensible diplomacy that considers both what is strategically important and how people are being helped.
People and countries involved have to choose between making the situation worse or trying to negotiate a calming down of the situation. Tharoor says the costs are increasing for ordinary people all over the world and that strong diplomatic action now could prevent even more damage to the economy.
In calling for India to be very active, Tharoor says there are both moral and practical reasons. He argues that stopping the conflict would lessen suffering around the world, make energy markets more stable and allow attention to shift to rebuilding and long-term cooperation in the area.
