As Prime Minister Narendra Modi continues his high-profile visit to Israel, Iran has publicly called on India to raise the Palestinian issue in Jerusalem. His remarks came even as Tehran itself prepares for a crucial round of nuclear negotiations with the United States in Geneva.
In an interview with India Today, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi delivered a pointed message, criticising Israel’s military campaign in Gaza while expressing hope that India would play a constructive role in pushing for Palestinian rights.
Araghchi sharply criticised Israel’s military actions in Gaza, alleging that the scale of destruction and civilian casualties amounted to “genocide.” Citing figures he said were confirmed by international organisations, he described the humanitarian situation as catastrophic.
Iran’s Gaza charge: ‘A question of self-determination’
Araghchi said Iran does not consider it appropriate to engage with what he termed a “genocidal regime,” but stressed that India, as a friend, would decide its own course. “It is up to our friends in India to decide for themselves,” he said, adding that he hoped PM Modi would also address “the question of Palestinians and their right to self-determination”.
The appeal places India in a delicate diplomatic space, balancing its deepening strategic partnership with Israel and its longstanding support for a two-state solution and Palestinian statehood.
‘India is a friend’: Tehran reaffirms historic ties
Even while voicing criticism of Israel, Araghchi was careful to underline Iran’s enduring relationship with India. Describing bilateral ties as historic, he pointed to economic, cultural and political links that have spanned decades. He noted his regular engagement with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and expressed confidence that India and Iran would continue strengthening their partnership.
“I hope that India plays its positive and constructive role to establish peace and stability in our region,” he said, urging New Delhi to help prevent further violence.
The remarks come at a time when regional tensions remain high and major powers are recalibrating their West Asia strategies.
Iran-US nuclear talks in Geneva: Prepared for war and peace
Araghchi’s comments on Gaza came just hours before he was set to depart for Geneva for the third round of nuclear talks with the United States. Striking a dual tone of diplomacy and deterrence, he said Iran is fully prepared for both “war and peace.”
“We are fully prepared, not because we want war, but because we want to prevent a war,” he said, adding that Iran’s armed forces are ready to defend the country if necessary.
At the same time, he expressed cautious optimism that a “fair, balanced and equitable deal” could be achieved if Washington demonstrates genuine commitment.
Iran insists that its nuclear programme is peaceful and maintains that it will not relinquish its right to civilian nuclear technology. Araghchi said Tehran is ready to address questions and remove concerns but will not compromise on sovereign rights.