Amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, Iran is actively engaging with key regional players, urging them to take a stand against what it perceives as Israeli aggression. A senior Iranian diplomat has specifically called on India to condemn Israel's military actions, framing them as a breach of international law. Simultaneously, Iran has expressed its hope that Pakistan will not take any actions that could harm Iranian interests, particularly in light of recent discussions between Pakistani and U.S. officials.
Mohammad Javad Hosseini, the deputy chief of mission at the Iranian embassy, conveyed these messages during a recent media briefing. He emphasized India's role as a leader of the Global South, suggesting that New Delhi has a responsibility to denounce actions that violate international norms. "We believe every country, including India, should condemn it (Israeli military actions), not because of their relations with Iran but because these actions are in breach of global norms," Hosseini stated. He further elaborated that failing to condemn the attacks could set a dangerous precedent, incentivizing other nations to engage in unwarranted aggression against their neighbors.
The appeal to India comes as Iran and Israel have been engaged in a series of escalating exchanges, including missile and drone strikes, for over a week. These hostilities have raised concerns about regional stability and the potential disruption of oil flows, with nearly 30% of the world's daily oil consumption passing through the Strait of Hormuz. When questioned about the possibility of Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz, Hosseini did not provide a direct answer but indicated that "several options are on the table," depending on how the situation unfolds. He stressed that the continuation of these aggressions would have negative effects on the region's economy and would inevitably spread throughout the world.
Regarding Pakistan, Hosseini's comments were prompted by inquiries about a recent meeting between Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir and US President Donald Trump. There is speculation that the United States might be considering the use of Pakistani military bases in the event of an attack on Iran. Hosseini stated that Iran hopes Pakistan will stand with it against Israeli aggression, adding, “There has been a lot of misinformation and news around the situation [the meeting between Pakistani Army chief Asim Munir and US President Donald J. Trump]. I hope Pakistan will stand with Iran against Israeli aggression". Pakistan has affirmed its "unwavering moral support" for Iran amidst the ongoing conflict with Israel, condemning the aggression. Pakistan has also stated that it has received no request from Iran for military assistance.
India has historically maintained a balanced relationship with both Iran and Israel, advocating for de-escalation and diplomatic dialogue. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has reportedly been in contact with his Iranian and Israeli counterparts since the conflict began. However, Iran appears to be seeking a more explicit condemnation of Israel's actions from India, viewing it as a matter of principle and international law rather than simply a bilateral dispute.
The Iranian diplomat said that Tehran is not “disappointed” with India's reaction to the war, but rather “expects” more. India distanced itself from a statement made by the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), condemning Israel's military action.
The situation remains highly fluid, with the potential for further escalation and broader regional implications. Iran's diplomatic outreach to India and Pakistan underscores its efforts to garner support and navigate the complex geopolitical landscape in the wake of heightened tensions with Israel.
