Interview/ Iraj Elahi, Iranian ambassador to India
Iran is once again in the eye of a geopolitical storm after having decided to articulate a clear anti-US, anti-Israel position in the ongoing Hamas-Israel conflict. In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK, Iraj Elahi, Iran’s ambassador to India, says Israel has consistently shown disregard for international law and a reluctance to accept solutions. He says Iran and India have the potential to enhance stability in West Asia through their collaborative efforts. Excerpts:
Conflicts have broken out all across West Asia and the possibility of a serious escalation is real. How does Iran see it?
The atrocities committed by the Zionist regime against innocent Palestinians are the fundamental cause of tension and instability in the region. So far, Iran has prioritised mobilising the international community to halt these atrocities in the occupied Palestinian territories and to bring an end to the ongoing genocide swiftly. We maintain that all nations should utilise every available measure, be it legal or political, to deter further violence by the Zionists. In line with this belief, Iran has exerted its utmost efforts to foster peace and stability in the region.
What is the Iranian position on the significance of the Palestinian question for permanent peace and stability in the region?
The Israeli regime has consistently shown disregard for international law and a reluctance to accept solutions such as the two-state proposal. We firmly believe that the only viable solution is to conduct a referendum, allowing the Palestinian people to determine their own destiny. Achieving peace and stability in West Asia is impossible without addressing the Palestinian issue. Any initiative that overlooks an inclusive and fair solution is not only destined to fail, but will also exacerbate the existing situation.
The recent bombings by Iran in Pakistan and Pakistan’s retaliation saw a clear violation of transnational boundaries and sovereignty.
The frequency of terrorist incidents in Iran has increased significantly in the recent months. Faced with no other option, Iran has had to resort to urgent preemptive measures. Nevertheless, Iran and Pakistan have consistently demonstrated exemplary cooperation in combating terrorist networks along their shared border. It is certain that we will soon reaffirm and restore our deep and enduring friendship.
India and Iran have shared warm ties, except for a brief period in recent years. Thankfully, the relationship is seemingly back on track.
I think evidence does not support this claim. The relations never ceased to develop, although unilateral sanctions by the United States impeded the full realisation of their potential. Notably, Iran successfully joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) when India hosted its annual summit. Furthermore, India played a pivotal role in facilitating Iran’s accession to the BRICS group. Both nations stand as key proponents of multilateralism, consistently offering mutual support within international institutions such as the United Nations.
India has begun avoiding the Red Sea stretch and is plying its ships around the Cape of Good Hope. What kind of expectations does Iran have from India on this issue?
According to statistics, the Yemen army tries to prevent ships serving the interests of the supporters of the Zionists, aiming to compel an end to the Gaza genocide. Iran and India, as primary pillars of maritime security in the Indian Ocean, have the potential to significantly enhance the region’s stability through collaborative efforts.