In a recent statement, the Iranian Ambassador to India, Iraj Elahi, emphasised India’s potential as a “big power” and a key “voice” for the Global South. He expressed that India could play an “active role” in the de-escalation of conflicts in West Asia.

In an exclusive interview with PTI Videos, Elahi’s comments came against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict and the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. When asked about Iran’s outreach to other nations, he mentioned that while Iran maintains close contacts with Russia and China, it has not engaged directly with India. However, Elahi stated that Iran has “invited India” and other influential countries to leverage their positions to encourage Israel to de-escalate the situation.

“We believe that the region needs peace and stability. We, as Iran, want a powerful region, instead of a powerful country. Peace and stability are the precondition for the development of a country…

“But we cannot be indifferent to what is happening in Palestine… The ongoing bloodshed in Palestine is something we cannot ignore or neglect,” the Iranian envoy said.

On the recent military operations from the sides of Iran and Israel, he said, “According to our assessment, launching missiles at Israeli military bases and intelligence installations was intended to send a clear message to Israel. We believe this strike successfully hit the territory."

"The commander of the highest forces has said explicitly that any attack on Iranian interests and infrastructure will receive a strong response from Iran. We will retaliate very strongly," he also said. Regarding relations with India, Ambassador Elahi stated that India is considered a close friend of both Iran and Israel.

“But our relationship goes back 2,000 years, whereas India and Israel’s relationship is not that old. India, as a big power and a voice of the (Global) South, can play an active role in the de-escalation of the region,” Elahi said.

Ambassador Elahi expressed Iran’s hope that “India uses its influence and capabilities for de-escalation.” He also highlighted Iran’s geographical significance, noting that it is a vast country situated between two bodies of water.

“In the south of Iran, we have a coastline of more than 4,000 kilometres. Chabahar Port is in the southeast of Iran, and it is very far from the Mediterranean and West Asia.

“The international corridor is not under danger, and the connectivity, which is the backbone of India-Iran relations, is safe,” he said. The envoy also reiterated that Iran is “safe” for Indians, Iranians and other nationals.