Prakash Karat slams Centre for not condemning U.S.-Israel attack on Iran

Calling for the preservation of India’s historic anti-imperialist legacy, CPI(M) former General Secretary Prakash Karat urged people to unite and protest against the ongoing US–Israel actions, particularly in Iran.

He was speaking at a seminar on “Imperialism in the 21st Century—International Developments” organised by the CPI (M) State Committee at MV Vignana Kendram on Friday (March 27, 2026). The meeting was chaired by State Secretary V. Srinivasa Rao.

Mr. Karat described the US–Israel military actions against Iran as “unjust and immoral,” and criticised the Government of India for not condemning the attacks. The Union government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had compromised India’s independent foreign policy by aligning closely with the United States, he alleged.

Referring to global economic trends, Mr. Karat said that after the collapse of the Soviet Union, liberal economic policies gained dominance worldwide. However, these policies are now facing a deep crisis, pushing imperialist countries to exploit developing nations as markets to sustain their economies.

He noted that China’s rise as a major economic power has posed a serious challenge to US global dominance. In response, the United States has increasingly resorted to military interventions in countries such as Iraq, Libya, and Syria.

On the Iran conflict, Mr. Karat said the ongoing war has disrupted global oil supplies, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, creating economic strain across nations. While the US sought to pressure countries like China through these disruptions, he pointed out that China has secured alternative energy arrangements, including increased oil imports from Russia. Meanwhile, Russia has benefited by expanding its oil trade amid global tensions.

Mr. Karat also criticised India’s stance on the conflict, stating that even serious developments, such as attacks on Iran and threats to its leadership, were not strongly condemned by the Indian government. He emphasised that India has a long-standing tradition of opposing imperialism and called for continuing that legacy through mass mobilisation and public resistance.

Participants expressed condolences over the Markapuram bus accident victims. A resolution condemning US imperialist aggression and observing April 7 as Cuba Solidarity Day was passed at the seminar. On the occasion, Karat also released the book “Imperialism – A Threat to the World” authored by noted economist Prabhat Patnaik.