By Onkar Singh
Chief Editor, Sikh Jagriti, Punjab
President, Kaun Banega GursikhBachchaSanstha, Jaipur
The war being waged by America and Israel cannot be viewed merely through the prism of a regional or sectarian conflict. It is, in essence, a war that raises profound questions about humanity itself. While Iran has undoubtedly suffered immense losses, what it has gained – in terms of courage, resilience, and a remarkable sense of Shia-Sunni unity – is truly unparalleled.
The stance of the Indian government in this matter appears to diverge from the country’s long-standing foreign policy traditions. Its apparent silence on Palestine, and its reluctance to openly criticise the attempts by America and Israel to pursue regime change and issue nuclear threats against Iran, are deeply concerning.
History offers a contrasting example. In 1971, India stood firm in the face of American pressure and went ahead with its nuclear resolve. That moment reflected a spirit of sovereignty and moral courage. It is worth asking why a similar clarity of position is not visible today in relation to Iran.
The devastation inflicted upon Iran, including the reported assassination of Ayatollah Khomeini and innocent civilians, including little girls, sends a chilling message to humanity. Yet, despite this, the Iranian people have demonstrated extraordinary resolve, making it clear that they are prepared to defend their dignity and sovereignty with unwavering determination.
This spirit finds resonance in the timeless teachings preserved in the Guru Granth Sahib.
“सूराजोपहचानीएजुलरैदीनकेहेत।/ पुरजापुरजाकटमरेकबहुंनछाडेखेत।।”
(A true warrior is one who fights for righteousness; / even if cut into pieces, he never abandons the field.)
This message inspires individuals to stand firm for justice and truth until their final breath.Similarly, the words of Guru Nanak offer a profound reflection on the path of love and sacrifice:
“ज्योतऊप्रेमखिलनकाचाहोसिरधरतलीगलीमेरीआओ। / इतमारगपैरधरीजैसिरदीजैकाननकीजै।।”
(If you desire to play the game of love,step onto my path with your head placed upon your palm. / Once you set foot on this path,offer your head without hesitation.)
This teaching reminds us that the path of love, justice, and humanity is not an easy one; it demands courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment.
In the same spirit, Guru Gobind Singh called upon every Sikh to embody strength and resolve, declaring:
“सवालाखसेएकलड़ाऊंतभैगोबिंदसिंहनामकहाऊं।”
(I shall make one fight against one hundred and twenty-five thousand – only then shall I be worthy of the name Gobind Singh.)
The essence of this message is clear: wars are not won by weapons or vast armies alone, but by courage, conviction, and strength of will. Victory is rooted in determination.
This very spirit, I believe, is visible today in the people of Iran. The arrogance and excesses of powerful nations cannot endure indefinitely. In the end, it is those who stand for truth, justice, and humanity who prevail.
While the Government of India may, at present, appear to have strayed from its foundational principles, the sentiments of the Indian people remain deeply connected with justice and human dignity. In that sense, many in India continue to stand in solidarity with Iran.