New Delhi

Congress MP Manish Tewari on Monday expressed concern over disruptions in global supply chains caused by the ongoing West Asia conflict, urging all sides to pursue diplomatic solutions.

Speaking to the media, Tewari highlighted the growing challenges faced by energy-dependent nations, pointing to the wider impact on supplies of crude oil, natural gas, fertilisers, food, and pharmaceuticals. He noted that the situation has become increasingly critical, with thousands of ships reportedly stranded in key maritime zones, worsening supply bottlenecks.

Describing the conflict as entering a particularly sensitive and dangerous phase, he said the prolonged hostilities involving Iran, the United States, and Israel have significantly disrupted essential supply chains, including those for life-saving medicines.

A day earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security to review the evolving situation and assess mitigation strategies. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Cabinet Secretary presented a comprehensive overview of the global scenario and steps being taken by various ministries and departments.

The meeting reviewed the potential impact across key sectors such as agriculture, fertilisers, food security, petroleum, power, MSMEs, exports, shipping, trade, finance, and supply chains. The broader macroeconomic outlook and further policy responses were also discussed.

Officials assessed the availability of essential commodities, including food, fuel, and energy, and deliberated on short-, medium-, and long-term measures to ensure uninterrupted supply. The requirements of farmers for the upcoming Kharif season were also examined, with assurances that existing fertiliser stocks would help maintain food security.

The government noted that sufficient coal reserves at power plants would prevent any electricity shortages. Discussions were also held on diversifying import sources for chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and petrochemicals, along with exploring new export markets for Indian goods.

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Meanwhile, tensions continue to escalate in the region as the conflict enters its fourth week. Reports indicate that Iran has warned it may shut down the Strait of Hormuz indefinitely if threatened, while the United States has signalled possible strikes on Iranian infrastructure. US Central Command has also stated that its forces are targeting Iranian naval assets that pose risks to international shipping in and around the strategic waterway.