Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammed Fathali, has thanked the people of India for standing in solidarity with Iran during the recent conflict in West Asia, which saw the country lose Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Speaking at an event held at the Iran Culture House in New Delhi on Thursday, the envoy said Indians from all communities extended sympathy and support to Iranians during what he described as a deeply painful and difficult period.

Fathali said the people of India stood “shoulder to shoulder” with Iran, sharing in the nation’s grief and expressing condolences after the loss of Iranian leaders. He appreciated the support shown by citizens across religious backgrounds, calling it a reflection of the strong civilisational ties between the two countries. “During this difficult time of mourning, people across India stood beside us with compassion and solidarity. We sincerely thank the citizens of this country, irrespective of religion, for sharing our sorrow,” he said.

Following Ayatollah Khamenei’s death in US airstrikes on February 28, mourning gatherings and processions were organised in several parts of India. Members of the Shia community in Jammu and Kashmir also launched donation drives in support of Iran during the conflict. India has repeatedly voiced concern over the tensions in Iran and the wider Gulf region, urging all sides to pursue dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace at the earliest.

Ambassador Fathali assured India that the safety of Indian nationals living and working in West Asia remains a top priority for Tehran. Addressing concerns over regional instability, he said Iran values the security and well-being of all communities in the region, including Indian expatriates. The envoy also emphasised that Iran intends to maintain its long-standing diplomatic and cultural relationship with India and continues to welcome New Delhi’s constructive role in promoting regional stability.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.