Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday issued a strong warning to India's "neighbour", saying any misadventure in the current global situation would invite a decisive response. His remarks came amid escalating tensions in West Asia following the Iran conflict.
"Our neighbour, in the current situation, can commit any misadventure. If it does so, India's action will be unprecedented and decisive," defence minister Rajnath Singh said, without taking any name, and added that Operation Sindoor is not over yet.
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He was speaking at a Sainik Samman Sammelan in poll-bound Kerala, where he also addressed concerns over regional tensions and India's preparedness.
Escorting tankers through Strait of Hormuz
Rajnath Singh said the Indian Navy is ensuring the safety of energy supplies amid the conflict. He noted that naval ships are escorting Indian tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime route affected by the ongoing hostilities.
Dismissing speculation about shortages, he said, "...Some people want to cause panic by spreading lies over this conflict in West Asia. Neither is there a shortage of petrol-diesel in the country, nor a shortage of gas. India is prepared to deal with any energy crisis."
He also criticised the Opposition, accusing it of engaging in politics during a sensitive period.
Assurances for Indians in West Asia
Referring to Indians working in the region, particularly from Kerala, Singh said the government is prepared to ensure their safety. He said, "Today we are all going through a phase of major changes. A major conflict is going on in West Asia. Many people from Kerala live and work in these countries, but we should not worry at all because we will not lag behind in taking any steps for the protection and security of our Indian citizens. We are fully prepared for this."
Singh also referred to Operation Sindoor, launched after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. "The way terrorists targeted people on the basis of religion in Pahalgam… the attack was not just on India but on country's social unity and social fabric," Rajnath Singh said.
