ThePrint National Interest Pod: Gulf war exposed critical gaps for India. It’s time for navel-gazing, in national interest
Mar 28, 2026
Discussion on how the Gulf war revealed five strategic gaps shaping India’s leverage. A look at energy, fertilizer and inflation vulnerabilities tied to foreign policy choices. Analysis of military import strains and the limits they place on autonomy. Exploration of dependence on Gulf remittances and why long-term inward reforms are needed for true strategic independence.
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India Has Already Picked A Side In The Gulf Conflict
- India is not neutral in the current Gulf conflict, having effectively aligned with Israel, Gulf Arabs, and the US despite ties with Iran.
- Gupta explains this positional reality limits India's ability to mediate or act as a broker like Pakistan.
China Chooses Patient Strategic Gains Over Mediation
- China avoids mediation and watches rivals weaken, using patient long-term strategies like BRI to build influence across the Global South.
- Gupta argues China prefers strategic patience and debt-financed projects over emotional or short-term interventions.
Pakistan's Longstanding Strategic Clarity On Kashmir
- Pakistan has historically shown consistent strategic clarity by aligning with powers from the 1950s onward to pursue Kashmir.
- Gupta recounts Pakistan joining US alliances and allying with China to gain military leverage against India in the 1960s.