New Delhi

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday said that political parties across the spectrum, including the Opposition, have reached a “broad understanding” to present a united front in response to the ongoing crisis in West Asia.

Speaking to reporters after an all-party meeting convened to discuss the situation, Rijiju expressed satisfaction that the government had addressed all concerns raised by opposition leaders. “In this hour of crisis, whatever decision the government takes according to the prevailing situation, everyone will support it unitedly,” he said.

The meeting, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, brought together leaders from multiple parties to deliberate on the implications of the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

According to Rijiju, opposition leaders actively participated in the discussion, raising questions about India’s preparedness, the safety of Indian citizens abroad, and the potential economic impact of the crisis. He said the government provided “comprehensive and thorough” responses to all queries.

Sources indicated that a detailed presentation was delivered by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, followed by remarks from External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. The briefing highlighted that India’s energy security remains stable, with sufficient availability of crude oil, LPG, and other essential supplies.

Officials noted that India’s strong refining capacity and steady inflow of shipments have ensured continuity in supply chains, including critical sectors like fertilisers. Several shipments have already arrived, with more expected in the coming days.

The government also emphasized its proactive diplomatic outreach, stating that New Delhi is in constant communication with all relevant stakeholders. It described the maintenance of supply lines and continued engagement with multiple countries as a “diplomatic success.”

On the safety of Indian citizens, the Centre assured that there is no cause for panic. Indian embassies in the region are actively assisting nationals, and contingency evacuation plans are in place should the situation worsen.

Opposition leaders, while extending support, raised specific concerns, including the role of Pakistan in the conflict. In response, the government noted that such involvement is not unprecedented, referring to historical precedents dating back decades.

The reopening of certain regional access points after several days of disruption was also described as a positive development, suggesting some easing of immediate tensions.

During the meeting, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi raised issues related to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The government responded by noting that diplomatic outreach was initiated promptly once communication channels were restored.

Senior leaders from various parties attended the meeting, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Representatives from Congress, Samajwadi Party, CPI(M), DMK, AAP, and JD(U) were also present.

However, the Trinamool Congress did not participate in the meeting. Party MP Saugata Roy remarked that given the ongoing political differences with the BJP, there was little purpose in attending such a discussion.

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Despite political differences, the meeting reflected a rare moment of consensus, with most parties agreeing to support the government’s actions as India navigates the evolving geopolitical crisis.