Concerns Raised Over Middle East Conflict by BJD MP Sasmita Patra
Biju Janata Dal MP Sasmita Patra has raised alarms over the escalating conflict in West Asia, urging all parties to engage in dialogue to find a resolution. She highlighted the alarming impact of the war on innocent civilians and reiterated India's commitment to non-violence and peace. Patra's call for a balanced response echoes India's historical stance during conflicts. The recent coordinated airstrikes by the U.S. and Israel on Iranian cities have intensified the situation, prompting Iran to retaliate. As tensions rise, Patra emphasizes the urgent need for discussions to end the violence.
| Mar 5, 2026, 15:25 IST
BJD MP Calls for Dialogue Amidst Escalating Tensions
Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP Sasmita Patra expressed serious concerns regarding the ongoing conflict in West Asia on Thursday, describing the situation as extremely alarming. In a conversation with a news outlet, Patra emphasized the necessity for all parties involved to come to the negotiation table. She stated that the conflict must come to an end and highlighted the importance of dialogue, discussion, and deliberation as essential for resolving the crisis.
Patra further noted that the bombardment of schools, civilian areas, and nations uninvolved in the conflict illustrates the extensive nature of the warfare. She urged all countries, including the United States, Israel, Iran, and others, to unite in their efforts. Patra reiterated India's long-standing commitment to the principles of non-violence and peace, recalling that even during operations in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK), India maintained a balanced and restrained approach without resorting to war. She stressed that a similar rational and measured response is required in the Israel-Iran conflict, asserting that it is time to end the war as innocent lives have already been lost.
In her remarks, Patra stated, "I believe this is a very concerning situation. The images coming from West Asia and the Middle East each day are escalating the dangers of this war; it is no longer just a conflict. I firmly believe that this struggle must end, and all parties should come to the negotiation table. Dialogue, discussion, and deliberation should be the keys, not conflict and war... India has always believed in the principles of non-violence and peace... It is time to put an end to this conflict."
On February 28, the United States and Israel conducted coordinated airstrikes on several Iranian cities, targeting military command centers, air defense systems, missile sites, and critical governmental infrastructure. These attacks resulted in the deaths of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and four senior military and security officials, with reports of significant explosions in Tehran and other major cities. In retaliation, Iran launched ballistic missiles and drones at U.S. bases and allies across the region, including Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan, escalating the conflict in the Middle East and increasing risks for civilians and migrants.