Tehran: Amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Iran on Friday offered to mediate and help ease the situation. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said Tehran is prepared to use its “good offices” with both New Delhi and Islamabad to foster greater understanding during this difficult period.
Araghchi, who had earlier “strongly and unequivocally” condemned the attack, reiterated Iran’s commitment to promoting peace between its “brotherly neighbours.” He recalled the deep-rooted cultural and civilizational ties Iran shares with both India and Pakistan, stressing that both countries remain a priority for Tehran.
In a post on X, Araghchi quoted Persian poet Saadi to emphasise unity and empathy: “Human Beings are members of a whole / In creation of one essence and soul / If one member is inflicted with pain / Other members uneasy will remain.” He said this spirit must guide efforts to bridge differences and work toward mutual understanding.
The Pahalgam attack, carried out on Tuesday, saw terrorists open fire on a bus carrying tourists in Jammu and Kashmir, killing 26 people in what is being described as the deadliest assault in the Valley since the 2019 Pulwama attack. The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility for the massacre.
Earlier on Wednesday, the Iranian Foreign Ministry had issued a strong condemnation of the attack, calling it a “grave crime” and a “flagrant violation” of international law and humanitarian principles. Iran extended condolences to the government and people of India and called for urgent regional and international cooperation to prevent terrorism and ensure that perpetrators and sponsors are prosecuted.
In another post on X, Araghchi had said, “Iran strongly and unequivocally condemns the terrorist attack against tourists in #Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the people and government of India.”
