Israeli envoy faces expulsion calls over 'nuclear alliance' claim

New Delhi: A recent podcast appearance by Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar on ANI has ignited a political and diplomatic firestorm, with civil society groups demanding his expulsion over remarks concerning a secret nuclear alliance allegedly involving Iran, Pakistan, and North Korea. The controversial claims have been widely condemned as "reckless warmongering" with the potential to destabilise regional harmony.

The Press Foundation Trust has formally petitioned the highest constitutional authorities in India, calling for a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into the matter. In a strong statement, foreign policy analyst Dr. Priya Menon criticised Azar’s comments as showing “an astonishing disregard for diplomatic norms,” warning that such remarks could strain India's sensitive geopolitical balance.

The fallout has triggered a social media storm, with the hashtag #ExpelAzar trending prominently on platforms like Twitter and Instagram. Public outrage continues to build, intensifying pressure on the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to issue a response. Officials now face the delicate task of navigating India’s strategic partnership with Israel while addressing mounting domestic concerns.

Meanwhile, ANI is also facing scrutiny for airing the podcast without editorial filters, with critics accusing the platform of promoting views that may be perceived as “anti-India.” Demands for either a retraction or clarification of the episode are growing, with potential implications for the channel’s credibility and editorial accountability.