Nitin Gadkari Warns of World War Risk Amid Global Conflicts
Nitin Gadkari Warns of Impending Global War, Cites Authoritarianism as Threat to World Peace
New Delhi, July 7, 2025 – Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, issued a stark warning on Sunday, saying that the escalating conflicts between global superpowers could soon push the world to the brink of a third World War. He highlighted the Israel-Iran and Russia-Ukraine wars as major flashpoints, blaming increasing authoritarianism for the deteriorating global peace environment.
Gadkari made the remarks while launching the book Beyond Borders in New Delhi. The senior BJP leader described the current international situation as fragile, with warfare technology outpacing humanity’s ability to contain destruction.
“World War Can Break Out Anytime”
“There is an atmosphere of conflict going on across the world amid the war between Israel and Iran as well as Russia and Ukraine,” Gadkari said. “The situation is such that there is a possibility of a World War taking place anytime.”
Referring to the rapid militarization and advancements in warfare tactics, Gadkari stressed how missiles, drones, and cyber-weapons have replaced traditional military tools, making it “increasingly difficult to protect civilian lives.”
“Amid all this, it has become difficult to protect humanity,” he said, adding, “Often, missiles are fired on civilian settlements. This has created a serious problem and there is a need to discuss all these issues at a global level.”
Superpower Authoritarianism Threatens Peace
Gadkari criticized what he called the “authoritarianism and dictatorship” of superpowers, arguing that it is leading to the erosion of coordination, harmony, and global love.
“It won’t be right to say so, but (fact is) all this is slowly leading to destruction,” he stated. “Authoritarianism and dictatorship (adhikarwadi-hukumshahi) of the superpowers is making coordination, harmony and love vanish.”
He called for international introspection and policy review, urging global stakeholders to learn from India’s values of truth, non-violence, and dialogue, as preached by Lord Buddha.
India’s Role in Promoting Peace
Echoing India’s historical message of peace, Gadkari said that India must serve as a beacon of unity and dialogue in the current geopolitical environment.
“India is the land of the Buddha, which has always stood for peace and non-violence,” he emphasized. “At a time when global peace is threatened, we must take the lead in promoting unity and understanding.”
Technological Advancements Fueling Destruction
Highlighting how technology has transformed warfare, Gadkari noted that the relevance of tanks and traditional aircraft is rapidly declining, while missiles and drones dominate modern military strategy.
He expressed concern over civilian areas increasingly becoming targets, thereby raising the humanitarian cost of war and calling for urgent discussions at international platforms such as the United Nations and G20.
Book Launch: ‘Beyond Borders’
Gadkari was speaking at the launch of the book Beyond Borders, which delves into international geopolitics, security, and diplomacy in an era of rising global tensions. The minister praised the authors for raising timely questions and initiating dialogue on critical matters affecting the world.
“Books like Beyond Borders help societies reflect on the changing dimensions of international relations and our collective responsibilities,” he said.