Rahul Gandhi Critiques Modi's Foreign Policy Amid West Asia Conflict

In a recent statement, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the Modi government's foreign policy, suggesting it is influenced by external pressures amid the West Asia conflict. He highlighted the implications of a US waiver allowing India to purchase Russian oil, arguing that this compromises India's energy security and diplomatic autonomy. Gandhi emphasized that India's foreign policy should reflect the collective will of its people, rooted in historical and spiritual values. His remarks were echoed by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, who expressed concerns over India's diminishing diplomatic space. The article delves into the complexities of India's energy needs and the geopolitical tensions affecting its foreign relations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 6, 2026, 16:04 IST

Gandhi Questions Government's Foreign Policy

On Friday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi raised concerns regarding the Modi administration's foreign policy in light of the ongoing conflict in West Asia, asserting that it stems from the manipulation of a compromised individual.

His remarks followed the announcement that the United States had granted Indian refiners a temporary waiver, allowing them to purchase Russian oil that had been stranded at sea due to the conflict.

Previously, Indian goods faced a hefty US tariff rate of 50%, which included a 25% punitive tariff imposed in August for acquiring Russian oil. However, on February 7, the US President lifted this additional levy, reducing the effective tariff on Indian imports to 18%.

The White House indicated that this punitive tariff was rescinded because India had pledged to cease all direct or indirect imports of oil from the Russian Federation.

Gandhi emphasized that India's foreign policy should reflect the collective will of its citizens, rooted in the nation's history, geography, and spiritual values of truth and non-violence. He criticized the current situation as lacking genuine policy direction.

He stated, “The US will dictate our oil purchases – whether from Russia or Iran, the decision will not be ours.”

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge supported Gandhi's statements, arguing that the US's 30-day waiver for India to buy Russian oil illustrates the Modi government's ongoing concession of diplomatic authority.

Kharge remarked that such language is typically reserved for sanctioned nations, not for India, which has historically been a responsible global partner.

He noted that this measure would not significantly benefit the Russian government, as it only allows for the trade of oil already stranded at sea.

This decision was made in response to rising crude oil prices and disruptions in supply from West Asia.

India, which relies heavily on oil and gas imports, meets approximately 80% to 85% of its energy needs through foreign sources.

As of Friday, the price of benchmark Brent crude had surged to $84 per barrel, reflecting a 15.9% increase since February 27, when it was priced at $72.87. This spike followed a joint operation by Israel and the US on February 28 aimed at undermining Iranian capabilities.

In retaliation, Iran launched strikes against Israeli and US military installations in the region and targeted major cities in Gulf nations.

On Monday, Iran declared that the Strait of Hormuz was “closed” to shipping traffic, threatening to set ablaze any vessels attempting to navigate through this crucial waterway.

This narrow passage connects the Gulf to the Arabian Sea and is vital, with about 20% of global petroleum liquids passing through it.