Government Calls All-Party Meeting to Discuss Middle East Crisis

All-Party Meeting Scheduled to Address Middle East Situation

The government has convened an all-party meeting to deliberate on the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. This meeting is set for Wednesday at 5 PM. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to lead the discussions, with Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar also anticipated to attend. However, Mamata Banerjee's party has decided to abstain from this meeting. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) will not participate in the government-organized gathering.

Earlier, Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, informed reporters in the Parliament complex that he would be unable to attend the all-party meeting due to a prior commitment in Kerala. Nevertheless, following news regarding Sonia Gandhi's health, Rahul's trip to Kerala has been postponed for the time being.

Opposition Demands Meeting After PM's Statement

The opposition raised the demand for an all-party meeting following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks in Parliament regarding the situation in the Middle East. Congress and several other opposition parties have been persistently questioning the government about the war in the Middle East and its implications for India. During a session in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, PM Modi stated that seven empowered new groups have been established to address the challenges arising from the ongoing conflict in the region, focusing on the supply of LPG, essential services, and other related matters.

In his address, Modi highlighted that the ongoing war has led to a severe energy crisis globally, which has persisted for over three weeks. He mentioned in the Lok Sabha on Monday that the unexpected crisis stemming from the conflict in the Middle East is likely to have long-lasting effects, and the government is fully prepared to tackle these challenges.

Criticism of Rahul Gandhi's Absence

Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske criticized Rahul Gandhi's absence from the all-party meeting focused on the escalating conflict in the Middle East, calling it "unfortunate." Speaking to reporters, Mhaske remarked, "While discussions will take place regarding the current conflict and suggestions from the opposition will be welcomed, it is regrettable that the opposition leader will not be participating... They seem more interested in making headlines by criticizing the Prime Minister rather than contributing to solutions." He further accused Gandhi of failing to engage in resolving issues, stating, "They do not even attempt to address the problems and only make statements against the Prime Minister, who is actively working on these matters."

Key Officials to Attend the Meeting

The all-party meeting is scheduled for today at 5 PM, chaired by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. According to sources cited by a news agency, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, and other key ministers will also be present. The Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and the Petroleum Secretary will provide representatives from all political parties with updates on the current situation and India's preparedness.