NAGPUR, MAHARASHTRA — Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has raised serious concerns over the current state of global affairs, warning that the ongoing conflicts between Israel and Iran, and Russia and Ukraine, may push the world toward a potential World War.
“There is an atmosphere of conflict going on across the world… the situation is such that there is possibility of a World War taking place anytime,” said Gadkari during the launch of the book ‘Beyond Borders’ in Nagpur on Sunday.
‘Authoritarianism Replacing Harmony’
Speaking at the event, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways warned that growing dictatorial tendencies among global superpowers are leading to a breakdown of coordination, harmony, and love.
“Authoritarianism and dictatorship (adhikarwadi-hukumshahi) of the superpowers is making coordination, harmony and love vanish,” he said.
India’s Role as a Peaceful Voice
Gadkari lauded India’s cultural legacy as a nation that has always stood for peace and non-violence, invoking the teachings of Lord Buddha:
“India is the land of the Buddha giving the message of truth, non-violence and peace,” he said, urging that the world needs to review and discuss international developments to shape a future course of action.
Changing Nature of War: Missiles and Drones
Gadkari also highlighted the transformation in modern warfare with the increased use of advanced technologies, particularly missiles and drones, which are being used to target civilian populations:
“Missiles are being fired on civilian settlements. This has created a serious problem… It has become difficult to protect humanity.”
Global Destruction Looming?
Cautioning against complacency, the senior BJP leader said that the trajectory of global conflict is alarming:
“It won’t be right to say so, but [fact is] all this is slowly leading to destruction.”
His remarks come amid heightened geopolitical tensions, including:
- Ongoing Israeli strikes in Iran and Gaza
- Escalating Russian operations in Ukraine
- Hezbollah’s defiance in Lebanon
- BRICS condemnation of unilateral military strikes
Gadkari’s Broader Vision
Apart from international issues, Gadkari has recently been spearheading major infrastructure and mobility reforms, including EV fire safety initiatives, ropeways, and hyperloop planning, as part of his mega mobility vision for India.
FAQs
What did Gadkari say about World War?
He warned that the ongoing global conflicts could escalate into a World War “anytime” if not addressed through international dialogue and cooperation.
What events is he referring to?
The Israel-Iran conflict and the Russia-Ukraine war, both of which involve superpowers and advanced military technologies, prompting fears of global escalation.
What solution did Gadkari propose?
He stressed the need for global deliberation, invoking India’s peaceful ethos to guide the world through dialogue and non-violence.
With escalating instability and rhetoric of war rising globally, Gadkari’s warning adds to a growing chorus of voices urging the world to choose peace over power.