Context

·       The current phase of global transition is defined by a deepening crisis within the Western-dominated international order. The influence once firmly held by the United States and its allies is now eroding, as their long-standing tools of power lose traction in a rapidly changing world.

·       This decline is evident in repeated violations of international law, ongoing trade wars, unilateral military actions, the weakening of global governance institutions, media manipulation, and a disregard for environmental sustainability. These are not isolated incidents but symptoms of a broader systemic breakdown.

·       The traditional mechanisms that underpinned Western supremacy—such as control over global financial systems, monopolisation of advanced technologies, conditionalities tied to human rights narratives, and dominance over international media—are no longer as effective. As these tools lose their edge, space is opening up for alternative global leadership models.

·       Against this backdrop, the article explores how this moment of change presents new opportunities for ancient civilisations like India and Iran. Drawing on their shared values, historical endurance, and civilisational strength, these nations are positioned to contribute meaningfully to a more equitable and multipolar global order.

India and Iran: Civilisational Partners in the Emerging Global South

·       As the Global South seeks to assert greater autonomy and reimagine development through indigenous models, both India and Iran are emerging as key contributors. Their civilisational legacies offer a moral and philosophical foundation that differs markedly from the transactional and often coercive approaches of Western geopolitics.

·       Historically, India and Iran have shaped global thought through contributions to governance, literature, philosophy, art, and science. Their civilisational outlooks have promoted values such as peace, diversity, and spirituality. Despite enduring centuries of colonial exploitation, foreign interference, and economic sanctions, both nations have preserved their cultural identities and strategic autonomy.

·       Today, these two countries exemplify the Global South''s growing demand for a more just international system. Their ability to withstand external pressure has imbued them with a shared sense of purpose in navigating current global challenges.

·       By enhancing South-South cooperation, advancing platforms such as BRICS, and contributing to initiatives like the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), India and Iran are not just strengthening bilateral ties but also working toward a multipolar world. Their shared commitment to moral principles and civilisational values gives them the legitimacy to advocate for global justice and equity.

Palestine, Iran, and the Struggle for Justice in the Global South

·       The enduring struggle of the Palestinian people has become emblematic of the Global South’s broader resistance against Western imperialism, double standards, and the politics of occupation. It symbolises a universal demand for dignity, sovereignty, and the right to resist domination.

·       Iran’s consistent support for Palestine, and its broader stance in defence of peaceful nuclear development, reflect the South''s aspiration to claim its right to progress and self-determination. These positions are rooted not only in geopolitical strategy but also in adherence to international law and ethical diplomacy.

·       Multilateral platforms such as BRICS have emerged as viable alternatives to the Western-centric global order. By promoting policies such as de-dollarisation and advocating for more inclusive economic systems, these platforms allow countries like India and Iran to reclaim economic and strategic space.

·       In this context, the INSTC is more than a trade corridor. It functions as a civilisational artery, linking regions from Eurasia and the Caucasus to Africa and India, while fostering connectivity, cooperation, and stability—particularly in the volatile West Asian region.

India, Iran, and the Pursuit of a Just International Order

·       In West Asia, U.S. policies have consistently disrupted regional stability. Its strategic support for Israel and interventions in countries like Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Lebanon, and Iran have not brought peace but have instead fuelled cycles of violence and mistrust.

·       Similarly, in South Asia, the United States has alternated between combatting and enabling terrorist groups to serve shifting geopolitical interests, undermining both regional security and long-term peace.

·       In contrast, India and Iran offer a civilisational vision rooted in wisdom, sovereignty, and mutual respect. At this historical juncture, they have the opportunity—and arguably the responsibility—to champion a new international order. This emerging order must be grounded in principles of justice, equality, self-determination, and human dignity.

·       Their partnership can offer a compelling counter-narrative to global domination, one where no nation is forced to serve the interests of the powerful, and where sovereignty and cooperation are valued above coercion and control.

Conclusion

·       India and Iran stand at the confluence of ancient wisdom and contemporary relevance. As the global order continues to shift away from Western hegemony, their civilisational strength, strategic cooperation, and shared commitment to justice place them at the forefront of shaping a multipolar world.

·       Together, they can guide the Global South towards a future defined not by subjugation, but by equity, dignity, and mutual respect. Their alliance offers not only a roadmap for regional stability and development, but also a larger civilisational message for the world: that true progress lies in collaboration, not domination; in justice, not expedience.