NEW DELHI, Apr 8: The Congress on Wednesday criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying Pakistan’s mediation in the recent US-Iran ceasefire highlights a major setback to his “personalized diplomacy” and exposes the “self-styled Vishwaguru” image.
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh accused Modi of remaining silent on Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank, calling it “cowardice” and questioning India’s global strategy. He added that Modi’s recent visit to Israel, followed by targeted killings in Iran, had weakened India’s international standing.
“The ceasefire brokered by Pakistan undermines both the substance and style of Modi’s diplomatic efforts,” Ramesh said. He noted that India’s policy of isolating Pakistan on the global stage has not yielded the intended results, in contrast to past efforts led by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.
Ramesh also criticized the government’s lack of explanation over the sudden halt of Op Sindoor in May 2025 and described Modi’s self declared 56-inch chest as “shrunk and shriveled” following Pakistan’s mediation.
The US-Iran truce, announced by President Donald Trump, includes a two-week cessation of hostilities and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump confirmed the ceasefire after discussions with Pakistani leadership, as Iran’s Supreme National Security Council agreed to negotiations in Pakistan starting Friday.
While Israel supported the ceasefire, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified that the agreement does not include conflicts with Hezbollah in Lebanon, leaving some regional tensions unresolved.