A Deepening Strategic Partnership between India and Iran under the Modi Regime

Abstract

India’s rise in global affairs has led to more complex relations, particularly with the Islamic Republic of Iran. India and Iran have long supported the individuality of the two countries and the relationship between the two countries is almost a thousand years old. In international politics, the growing relationship between different countries is becoming more and more complicated. Iran is becoming a reprehensive and isolated state by great powers like the U.S.A because of its nuclear program, especially Israel and several other neighbouring countries in the Gulf region, who see an increasingly powerful state Iran as a threat. As a result, there is always pressure on India to cut diplomatic ties with Iran. Despite these hurdles, India has forged a strategic partnership with Iran, ignoring pressure from allies. The present relationship between the two countries has become more prominent, especially during the tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Realism and material interests are the real basis of the foreign policy of India and Iran. Iran is strategically important to India. The recent agreement between India and Iran on the issue of the Chabahar port is a unique sign of the relationship between the two countries. To India, proper relations with Iran are very crucial in restraining security threats from Pakistan and China. This research explores the geo-strategic significance of Iran for India in changing international strategic circumstances. It will strategically analyse the changing patterns of Indo-Iran relations in different areas under the Modi regime.