Nearly two decades after India first opposed Iran’s nuclear program in a key international vote, New Delhi continues its delicate diplomatic balancing act — this time between allies like the US and Israel on one side and long-time partner Iran on the other.
On September 24, 2005, India voted alongside 21 other countries at the IAEA to declare Iran in non-compliance with its nuclear safeguards — a surprising move given India’s traditionally close ties with Iran. At the time, India was in the early stages of negotiating its civilian nuclear deal with the US, and Washington’s influence was instrumental in swinging India’s vote.
Fast forward to 2024, when a new resolution came up on Iran’s nuclear issue, India chose to abstain. This indicates New Delhi’s continued unease about a nuclear-armed Iran, while also signaling a desire to maintain strategic autonomy and regional ties.
India’s historical, cultural, and geographic connection with Iran remains strong — but its nuclear ambitions have consistently been a point of concern for Delhi, particularly as India seeks to protect its interests across West Asia and beyond.