Iran Supreme Leader’s Representative: Ties with India Remain Strong Amid Strait Tensions
Hyderabad: Abdul Majid Hakim Elahi, the representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader in India, on Sunday emphasized the strength of India-Iran relations following reports of firing on two Indian-flagged vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. He also called for peace in the region.
Speaking to the media, Elahi said, “Our relations with India are very strong. Due to good ties between Iran and India, India has benefited in transporting its oil and tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. The Prime Minister of India had very successful talks with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, and the External Affairs Minister also held several productive discussions with Iran’s Foreign Minister.”
Highlighting historical ties, he added, “The relationship between Iran and India goes back 5,000 years. The Iranian people share deep cultural, civilizational, educational, humanitarian, and philosophical links with India. Our relationship is very strong and will continue to grow stronger.”
Commenting on the reported incident, Elahi said he was not aware of specific details but expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved. “We do not want war. We want peace, and we hope the other side will also uphold peace so that the region remains stable,” he stated.
On the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, he said the disruption was linked to ongoing security concerns. “The strait was open, but due to tensions and security issues around Iran, it was temporarily closed. We hope it will reopen soon,” he said.
His remarks came after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz from Sunday evening, citing alleged violations of ceasefire terms involving the United States. According to reports, Iran accused the U.S. of not lifting a naval blockade on Iranian ships and ports.
The IRGC warned vessels against approaching the strait, stating that any movement toward it could be considered cooperation with the enemy and may invite action. Ships have been advised to follow only official IRGC naval communications for navigation updates.
Meanwhile, speaking in Lucknow about Iran-U.S. peace talks held in Islamabad, Elahi said the discussions failed due to disagreements over the framework.
