The Communist Party of India (Marxist) on Wednesday vehemently criticized what it described as the “belligerent posture” of the United States and G7 nations, warning that their actions risk escalating tensions and instability in the West Asian region.
In a strongly worded communique, the CPI(M) Politburo accused US President Donald Trump of making “inflammatory statements” that threaten to plunge West Asia into war. The statement specifically cited Trump’s “open threats to assassinate Iranian leaders and his demands for Iran’s unconditional surrender” as deplorable, further noting that the “large-scale mobilisation of US military fleets signals a readiness to join Israel in launching direct attacks on Iran.” The party labeled these developments as “extremely dangerous” and a threat to regional stability.
The CPI(M) also took aim at the G7 communique, asserting that it unfairly blames Iran while ignoring “Israel’s unchecked aggression.” The party alleged that Israel is primarily responsible for the worsening regional crisis, citing its military actions not only in Gaza but also in Syria, Lebanon, Yemen, and now, purportedly, against Iran. The communique added that “The United States and Western imperialism are using Israel as a rogue proxy to impose hegemony over West Asia and beyond, in blatant violation of international laws and conventions.”
The CPI(M) urged the international community to take immediate steps to “rein in both the US and Israel” and called on the BJP-led Indian government to revise its “pro-US, pro-Israel foreign policy.”
This condemnation follows remarks made by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan during a recent campaign for the Nilambur Assembly by-election, where he described Israel as a “rogue nation” due to its aggressive military posture.
In response, V.D. Satheesan, Leader of the Opposition in Kerala and a senior Congress leader, accused the CPI(M) of political opportunism. Satheesan claimed the CPI(M) “tailors its rhetoric depending on the constituency,” highlighting their criticism of Israel in Muslim-majority Nilambur, while showcasing images of Mother Teresa in Kottayam to appeal to Christians. He also referenced the party’s past use of Saddam Hussein posters during campaigns.
Adding to the social media debate, observers frequently point out the perceived hypocrisy of top CPI(M) leaders, including Pinarayi Vijayan, seeking medical treatment in the US, and many Kerala-based CPI(M) leaders sending their children to Western countries for higher education, despite the party’s vocal advocacy for Kerala’s education system as being on par with global standards.
The CPI(M), which currently holds power only in Kerala, has seen its influence diminish in national politics after losing its former strongholds in West Bengal and Tripura.