Asia Times questions India’s strategic autonomy amid regional tensions

India’s foreign policy and its claim of strategic autonomy have come under scrutiny in a report published by the international magazine Asia Times, which has contrasted New Delhi’s approach with Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement in regional affairs,.

According to the report, India’s position on Iran-related developments has appeared unclear and inconsistent, drawing criticism from observers. 

It stated that Pakistan, on the other hand, has gained international attention for its balanced diplomatic approach and its role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran.

The publication noted that Pakistan played an active role in supporting negotiations between Washington and Tehran, while India’s diplomatic response remained largely muted. 

It further claimed that Indian foreign policy activity during the crisis was limited and lacked visible engagement.

The report also stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi focused discussions with former US President Donald Trump primarily on energy and supply-related issues, rather than broader diplomatic intervention.

It added that a visit by Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar to the United Arab Emirates remained largely limited to diplomatic communication and assurances, rather than active mediation.

The analysis further suggested that closer cooperation between China and Pakistan has reduced India’s perceived regional influence. It also claimed that India’s reliance on external partnerships has made its diplomatic position more complex in the eyes of some international observers.

Experts quoted in the report argued that attempts to isolate Pakistan internationally have instead contributed to shifting regional dynamics. Pakistan, however, maintains that peace and stability in South Asia serve the broader interests of the entire region.