Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Jun 17: Indian-American Congressman Suhas Subramanyam has criticised the Trump administration's agreement with Iran, arguing that while it may help reduce immediate tensions in the Middle East, it leaves several key security concerns unresolved and could weaken America's diplomatic standing globally.

Speaking to reporters, the Democratic lawmaker said the agreement might temporarily reduce the threat of conflict but does not adequately address issues that have long been central to Washington's concerns regarding Tehran.

"This Iran deal, yes, it means fewer bombs, which is one good thing," Subramanyam said.

However, he expressed scepticism about the administration's ability to negotiate effectively.

"I don't have a lot of faith in this administration to negotiate. It seems like this Iran deal is a step back from what we had in 2015 when there was a real nuclear deal in place with measurable outcomes," he said.

Subramanyam argued that the recent conflict has inadvertently strengthened Iran's influence in the region rather than diminishing it.

"All that's happened with this war is that it has given Iran more leverage over the region and over the world," he said.

The Trump administration has promoted the agreement as a diplomatic breakthrough that could reduce tensions in the Gulf region and help restore commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical energy corridors.

However, Subramanyam cautioned that normal trade operations would not resume immediately.

"Many shipping companies still have concerns about using that route, so it will take considerable time for trade through the Strait of Hormuz to return to normal," he said.

The Congressman also questioned whether the agreement had achieved its primary objectives.

"It does nothing regarding Iran's support for terrorism. It also does nothing to curtail Iran's nuclear programme, which was the central issue behind the conflict," he said.

Subramanyam warned that the situation could have long-term consequences for American diplomacy and global influence.

"I don't know if this represents a decline in US power, but this conflict has certainly undermined the administration's diplomatic efforts and its ability to follow through on military threats," he said.

He added that the broader impact could extend beyond the Middle East.

"What has happened is that this administration is weakening America's standing in the world and its diplomatic credibility, and that will have long-term repercussions," he said.

The Congressman also voiced concern over what he described as a growing trend of hostility directed towards Indian Americans and other minority communities in the United States.

"We must speak out against hate in all forms, including hate directed at the Indian-American community," he said.

Subramanyam said such incidents have become increasingly common, particularly on social media platforms.

"I see it on my own social media accounts. People tell me to go back where I came from and say that I'm not a real American," he said.

He stressed that public representatives and community leaders have a responsibility to challenge such behaviour.

"We cannot remain silent when these incidents occur. We cannot ignore acts such as flag burning or other forms of hate. We must call them out whenever we see them," he said.

When asked whether political rhetoric was contributing to growing divisions, Subramanyam said inflammatory language from across the political spectrum was harmful.

"There is divisive rhetoric coming from both the far right and the far left, and none of it is helpful. That is why we have to challenge it whenever it appears," he said.