Iran Urges PM Modi to Raise Palestine Issue During Israel Visit

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day official visit to Israel, Iran has formally appealed to India to intervene regarding the Palestinian issue, while iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, in a recent interview, expressed hope that PM Modi would use his visit to discuss the rights of Palestinians and the ongoing humanitarian situation in Gaza. Araghchi characterized India as a "good and historical friend" of Tehran, suggesting that New Delhi could play a pivotal role in ensuring regional stability.

Iran's Diplomatic Appeal to India

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi highlighted the significance of PM Modi's presence in Israel, urging him to advocate for Palestinian interests. According to Araghchi, the relationship between Tehran and New Delhi has remained consistently strong, spanning economic, cultural, and political dimensions. While acknowledging that India's foreign policy is a sovereign matter, Araghchi stated that as a friendly nation, Iran expects India to voice concerns regarding the human rights of Palestinian civilians, while he also noted his positive professional rapport with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, stating that both nations frequently exchange views on regional developments.

Assessment of the Humanitarian Situation in Gaza

In his statement, Araghchi sharply criticized Israel's military actions in the Gaza Strip. " Araghchi claimed that approximately 75,000 people have lost their lives in Gaza, citing data he attributed to international organizations. He emphasized that Iran finds it difficult to engage with a regime it holds responsible for such a large-scale humanitarian crisis. The Iranian Foreign Minister expressed confidence that India could play a constructive role in preventing further violence and crimes against Palestinians.

Prime Minister Modi's Address to the Knesset

During his visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Knesset, the Israeli Parliament, on Wednesday, while in his speech, he supported the Gaza peace initiative, describing it as a path toward a just and lasting peace for the entire region. The Prime Minister conveyed a strong message of solidarity with Israel regarding the threat of terrorism. He stated that terrorism, regardless of its origin, remains a global threat to peace. PM Modi clarified that India maintains a consistent policy of zero tolerance toward terrorism, mirroring Israel's stance, and called for coordinated global efforts to combat this menace.

India's Stance on Global Terrorism and Peace

" He expressed his deepest condolences to the families affected by the violence. The Prime Minister reiterated that India's policy against terrorism is unwavering and devoid of double standards. He emphasized that dialogue and diplomacy remain the most effective tools for conflict resolution and reaffirmed India's commitment to restoring peace and stability in the Middle East through constructive engagement.

India's Role in Regional Stability

The diplomatic balance maintained by India is under scrutiny as tensions between Iran and Israel persist. While Iran seeks India's active intervention in favor of Palestine, India continues to strengthen its strategic and defense partnership with Israel. Araghchi expressed hope that India would benefit from its influence to foster peace in the region. Historically, India has supported a two-state solution, advocating for the peaceful coexistence of Israel and Palestine within secure and recognized borders, a position that remains central to its Middle East policy.