New Delhi: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has denounced the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists. During a conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, he stated that Iran ‘strongly condemns such barbaric acts of terrorism’ and stressed the importance of regional collaboration to combat this issue.
The attack, one of the deadliest in India in recent decades, has shocked the global community, prompting an outpouring of condolences and calls for unity against terrorism. Pezeshkian reiterated the necessity to ‘eliminate the roots of terrorism,’ emphasizing that these tragic incidents highlight the collective responsibility of all nations in the region to work together with compassion and solidarity to achieve lasting peace.
He also acknowledged the legacy of India’s founding leaders, Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, referring to them as ‘ambassadors of peace and friendship.’ The Iranian embassy in India noted that Pezeshkian expressed admiration for these figures and hoped that their spirit would continue to influence India’s international relations.
Furthermore, he expressed optimism about enhancing trade and infrastructure collaboration between India and Iran, mentioning that the development of Chabahar Port in Iran could facilitate strategic partnerships among India, Iran, and Russia, serving as a vital link for trade with Central Asian nations.
The President of Iran extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi to visit Tehran for discussions aimed at enhancing collaboration. During their conversation, PM Modi expressed gratitude for Iran’s condolences regarding the recent terror attack and conveyed his profound sadness over the tragic explosion at Shahid Rajaee Port, which resulted in 14 fatalities.
He also indicated India’s willingness to assist Iran. Having previously met the Iranian President in Kazan at the BRICS summit, PM Modi reiterated his government’s alignment with Tehran on the importance of unity and cooperation among regional nations, as stated by the Iranian embassy. He underscored the necessity for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing issues between Iran and the US.
Furthermore, PM Modi commended Iran’s positive contributions to peace and security, affirming India’s support for the Islamic Republic’s initiatives to promote regional and international stability. The embassy noted that the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of diplomatic solutions to various disputes, including those involving the United States.
Just a day prior, Iran had proposed to mediate between India and Pakistan amid rising tensions following the Pahalgam attack. Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, referred to both nations as ‘brotherly neighbours’ and expressed Tehran’s readiness to help alleviate regional tensions.
