Tue Sep 17 06:53:00 UTC 2024: ## India Rejects Iran’s Concerns over Minorities, Citing “Misinformed” Remarks
**New Delhi:** India has strongly condemned remarks by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei regarding the treatment of minorities in India, deeming them “misinformed and unacceptable.” The statement came hours after Khamenei expressed concern for the suffering of Muslims in Myanmar, Gaza, and India, urging Muslims to be aware of their shared plight.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal asserted that countries commenting on India’s internal affairs should first examine their own records on minorities. He also highlighted the strong historical ties between India and Iran, citing the recent 10-year agreement to develop and operate the Iranian port of Chabahar.
The dispute comes amidst escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, retaliated to Khamenei’s statement by labeling him a “killer and oppressor of his own people,” highlighting the freedoms enjoyed by Muslims in Israel and India, contrasting them with the situation in Iran.
Khamenei’s comments follow a pattern of criticism against India regarding its treatment of Muslims and the Kashmir region. The Iranian leader, addressing a gathering of clerics, spoke about the “suffering” of Muslims across the world, including India.
India finds itself in a delicate position, balancing its strategic partnership with Israel, particularly in defense and security, with its reliance on West Asia for a significant portion of its oil supply. This incident further underscores the complexity of India’s foreign policy as it navigates relationships with regional powers.
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