India extended condolences to Iran on the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marking a delicate diplomatic moment amid Middle East tensions.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met the Iranian ambassador in New Delhi and signed the condolence book. The meeting came after Khamenei’s death on Sunday, hours after US-Israel air strikes in Tehran. India had earlier avoided commenting on the strikes, maintaining silence despite Opposition demands for a formal statement.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East. He reiterated India’s position that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only path to resolving disputes.
India’s reaction aligned with G7 democracies, none of which issued condolences. The Opposition criticised the government, pointing to India’s historic ties with Iran. At one time, India imported 13 per cent of its oil from Iran and maintained strong trade relations. These ties weakened after US sanctions following Washington’s withdrawal from the nuclear deal.
The condolence message signals a subtle shift in India’s approach, balancing its traditional relationship with Iran against current geopolitical realities. The move highlights New Delhi’s effort to maintain diplomatic channels while navigating global pressures.
