Pakistan's mediator role in Iran war puts Modi in hot seat

Key Points:

• Reports indicate Pakistan is positioning itself as the lead mediator to broker peace between the US and Iran amidst the ongoing conflict, with Pakistan's Army chief reportedly proposing Islamabad as a venue for talks.
• Opposition leaders in India, including Rahul Gandhi and Jairam Ramesh, criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy, labeling it ineffective as Pakistan gains diplomatic ground during a critical global moment.
• Modi responded by stating India is actively maintaining diplomatic communication with Iran, Israel, and the US to seek a peaceful resolution and has urged preparedness for potential long-term economic impacts from the conflict.
• The Indian government has established seven empowered groups to monitor fuel, supply chains, and inflation, while urging state governments to prevent black marketing and protect vulnerable populations amid the crisis.
• Modi emphasized the importance of de-escalation and securing the Strait of Hormuz to ensure stability and safeguard national interests during the ongoing US-Iran tensions.