Amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday underscored the importance of global peace and urged all nations to avoid interfering in the internal affairs of sovereign, democratic countries. Highlighting India’s historical relationship with Iran, Kharge pointed out that Iran has consistently supported India during critical times, including on global platforms like the United Nations, particularly regarding the Jammu and Kashmir issue.

Speaking to the media in Kalaburagi, Kharge stated, "We advocate for peace around the world. Iran is our neighbor and has always stood by us in challenging times. We share strong trade relations, including oil imports. When the J-K issue was raised at the UN, Iran supported us. We do not want Iran to suffer. No country should interfere with or attack any sovereign and democratic nation—whether it’s Israel, Iran, or the US. What is happening today in one place could happen elsewhere tomorrow. India has always supported those who seek peace."

Earlier in the day, Congress MP Imran Masood also emphasized India’s need to stand by Iran during its conflict with Israel, describing Iran as a long-standing ally with whom India shares cultural and trade ties. "We must stand with Iran. It has always supported us in every possible way, and now it's our turn to support them during these difficult times," Masood said.

Tensions between Iran and Israel intensified on June 13 when Israel launched Operation "Rising Lion," targeting Iran's nuclear facilities. Iran responded with counterattacks. The conflict escalated further after the United States joined the fray, launching “Operation Midnight Hammer” and striking Iran’s key nuclear sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.

In retaliation, Iran fired several missiles at U.S. military bases in Qatar and Iraq, including the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest U.S. installation in the region, according to CNN. Meanwhile, Reza Pahlavi, the former Crown Prince of Iran, called for regime change in Tehran, asserting that the current regime is on the brink of collapse and that the time has come to usher in a new era for Iran.