NEW DELHI: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence following the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, saying the government’s stance raises serious concerns about India’s foreign policy position.
In a post on social media, Gandhi said, “The silence of Modi government on Iran and killing of its Supreme Leader shows that Narendra Modi is very much scared of next lot of Epstein files,” and described him as a “compromised PM.” He asked why the Centre had not issued a clear statement after Iranian state media reported that Khamenei was killed in US-Israel strikes.
Iran confirms death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israel strike
His remarks came a day after several opposition parties, on Sunday, criticised the government’s response to the escalating conflict in West Asia.
Opposition leaders condemn killing on Sunday
On Sunday, the Congress termed the reported assassination of Khamenei an “abdication of moral leadership” by the Modi government for not responding firmly. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra described the targeted killing of a sovereign nation’s leader as “despicable” and said it warranted strong condemnation. She also urged the government to prioritise the safety and evacuation of Indian citizens from affected countries.
AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi called the killing an “immoral and unlawful act” and said India should work toward halting the conflict. CPI leader D Raja questioned the government’s silence, noting Iran’s longstanding ties with India and warning that regional instability could affect Indian interests.
Congress leader Pawan Khera described the Centre’s position as a “complete betrayal” of India’s traditional foreign policy principles. Party general secretary Jairam Ramesh also raised concerns about the government’s diplomatic posture in light of recent international developments.
Calls for clarity on India’s foreign policy stance
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav urged the government to clarify whether it stands with war or peace and to outline diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring stability.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders Priyanka Chaturvedi and Sanjay Raut criticised the absence of a formal condolence message and said instability in Iran could have strategic implications for India. AAP leader Sanjay Singh also questioned the Prime Minister’s response.
In Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed concern over the developments and appealed for calm amid protests. National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also condemned the reported killing and called for restraint.
Strategic and regional implications
Iran has been considered an important strategic partner for India, particularly through the Chabahar Port project, which provides access to Afghanistan and Central Asia while bypassing Pakistan. Opposition leaders said prolonged instability in Iran could affect India’s economic and geopolitical interests.
The United States and Israel launched major strikes on Iran over the weekend. US President Donald Trump called on the Iranian public to challenge their leadership, while Iranian state media reported that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, 86, was killed in an air strike targeting his compound in Tehran.
The Government of India has not issued a detailed statement specifically addressing the reported killing but has previously called for restraint and emphasised the safety of Indian nationals in the region.
Today's E-Paper