The Indian National Congress has strongly criticized the central government following the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other Iranian leaders, condemning the government’s silent response. The party termed the silence as a departure from India’s traditional foreign policy values and commitment to international law.

Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi said the killings by the United States and Israel were carried out without any declaration of war. She emphasized that India’s silence not only contradicts the core principles of its foreign policy but also weakens the ideals of international rules and sovereignty. “This silence raises questions about India’s global credibility and must be challenged through open parliamentary debate and a clear, principled stance,” she stated.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra condemned the assassination in the strongest terms, stressing that the world needs peace, not further wars. She urged the Prime Minister to ensure the safety of Indian citizens residing in the Middle East. Priyanka further highlighted that India must adopt clarity and principle-based positions in its foreign policy.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed solidarity with the people of Iran and the international Shia community, stating that the party unequivocally condemns the assassination. He underscored that no external power has the right to enforce regime change in another country, calling the act a violation of sovereignty.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing that the safety of Indian citizens should remain the government’s top priority. He urged the central government to adopt a clear and principle-based approach in shaping India’s foreign policy.

MP Sukhdev Bhagat remarked that opposing attacks on any sovereign nation has traditionally been India’s policy, but the current government has failed to take a clear stand. Meanwhile, Rashid Alvi described Israel as a “terrorist state” and condemned the event, pointing out that violence is spreading across multiple countries simultaneously.

Congress highlighted that India’s three key pillars of foreign policy—the respect for international law and sovereignty, a peace-oriented approach, and the protection of Indian citizens—are being severely challenged in this crisis.

Overall, the party criticized the central government’s silence as a departure from established foreign policy principles and stressed the need for India to adopt a clear and strong global position.