Arab Nations converge in Delhi for 2nd India–Arab Foreign Ministers’ meeting as India emerges as key diplomatic bridge | India News

New Delhi is set to host a major diplomatic meeting as foreign ministers and senior representatives of all 22 member states of the League of Arab States gather for the India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (IAFMM). The revival of the forum, after a nearly decade-long hiatus since the last meeting in 2016, reflects rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly those between Iran and the United States, and underscores India’s rising profile as a reliable interlocutor between rival blocs.

In today’s episode of DNA, Zee News Editor-in-Chief Rahul Sinha gave a detailed analysis on why Delhi became the chosen venue for this risky diplomatic marathon. The meeting took place at a time when Gulf countries, West Asian powers and global stakeholders are seeking stability amid fears of escalation in tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States.

The IAFMM will see the participation of all 12 Gulf countries, each represented at ministerial or senior official level. Discussions are expected to focus on key agenda items as well as regional security, energy cooperation and the broader geopolitical climate in the Middle East. Developments in Delhi are closely followed by US President Donald Trump, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir for different strategic reasons.

For Washington, the concern lies in the possibility of Arab nations aligning with India on energy cooperation or positions regarding Iran; This could weaken US influence, including tariff pressure on India over Russian oil imports. Meanwhile, Tehran is closely watching whether India’s strong ties with Israel and balanced relations with Arab countries will lead to further Iranian diplomatic isolation in the region.

Pakistan’s military leadership is also uneasy. Islamabad fears that deeper India-Arab cooperation could undermine its goal of establishing a broader Islamic military alliance and undermine Pakistan’s defense export interests, especially if India develops strategic or defense partnerships with Arab countries.

India’s ability to host this meeting stems from its decade-long policy of balance in West Asian ties. Through platforms such as I2U2 and the IMEC economic corridor, India has positioned itself as a bridge rather than a partisan player, bringing together countries with historically hostile relations. The decision to distance itself from the US-backed “Peace Board” in Gaza due to the absence of a senior Palestinian representative further strengthened confidence in India’s independent foreign policy.

This credibility has attracted Arab and Israeli-related stakeholders to Delhi, as well as even representatives of the Palestinian Authority. India’s past diplomatic interventions – calling for restraint during the Gaza conflict, advocating ceasefires and facilitating de-escalation between Israel and Iran – have reinforced expectations that New Delhi can play a constructive role during crises.

As the meeting progresses, Arab countries see India not only as a host but also as a stabilizing force that can distract regional actors from the conflict. In the Middle East, where uncertainty prevails, the results of “Delhi Diplomacy” are eagerly awaited throughout the region.