Retired Indian Major General Gagan Deep Bakshi has warned that a proposed 'Sunni NATO' alliance could strain India's relations with the United States and Israel. In a recent interview, Bakshi emphasized that India's strategic interests require maintaining a close relationship with Iran as a counterweight to Pakistan.
Bakshi stated, 'India needs Iran as a counterweight to Pakistan and will not sacrifice its interests to accommodate Israel.' His comments come amid discussions of a potential security alliance among Sunni Arab states, which could align more closely with Pakistan and potentially isolate Iran.
The general's remarks highlight the delicate balance India maintains in its foreign policy, navigating ties with Israel, Iran, and the Gulf states. India has historically balanced its relationships, but a formal 'Sunni NATO' could force New Delhi to choose sides.
Bakshi's perspective reflects concerns within Indian strategic circles that such an alliance might undermine India's independent foreign policy and its ability to counter Pakistan's influence in the region.
