Jaishankar: India No Dalal Like Pakistan in Iran-US Peace Mediation Game

Sharif Offers to Host US-Iran Talks

On Tuesday, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Islamabad was ready and honoured to facilitate meaningful and conclusive talks between the US and Iran and that it was willing to host negotiations for a comprehensive settlement, a statement which was contingent upon the consent of the two parties.
This statement came after the news that Pakistan together with Egypt and Turkiye is involved in secret peace-making efforts. Sharif also had a conversation with Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian, during which he expressed concern over the intensification of the war. Sharif further called for the cessation of hostilities. 

Govt Defends Delay in Iran Leader Condolence

Responding to the Opposition's charge that India showed moral weakness by not condoling the demise of the Iranian Supreme Leader a bit sooner, the government informed the parties that when the Iran Embassy was opened, the Foreign Secretary went there immediately and signed the condolence book.

Opposition Demands West Asia Debate

Meanwhile, the Opposition has accused the government of providing "unsatisfactory" answers at the meeting and has further demanded a debate on the situation in West Asia in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
"It has been our longstanding demand that this issue be debated in both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha under Rules 193 and 176. Only then will people feel satisfied... The government says it (we do not want war), but what difference does merely saying that make? The reality is that a conflict is already underway. Pakistan, which is smaller than us and weaker in every respect, is today acting as a mediator and playing that role, while we remain mute spectators," Congress leader Tariq Anwar said.

Joshi Slams Rahul Gandhi's Absence

On the issue of absence of Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and TMC members from all-party meet on West Asia situation, Union minister Pralhad Joshi said it was a "highly irresponsible" behavior.
"The statements that Rahul Gandhi is making raise serious questions about whether he is genuinely interested in India's interests or in spreading rumours within the country. This has created significant doubt in people's minds. Today, in a way, he has even appeared to appreciate Pakistan. At a time when Pakistan is making statements against India, he seems to be lending credibility to them. He should first clarify whether he stands with India or with Pakistan," he said.